fbpx

New Patients (336) 290-7401

Current Patients (336) 226-0855

3450 Forestdale Drive Burlington, NC 27215

Gum Disease Burlington, NC

Gum disease (periodontal disease, gingivitis, or pyria) is a chronic infection that destroys gum tissue and underlying bone. In most cases, people do not feel pain with gum disease until it is very advanced. Regular dental visits and oral hygiene are the best methods for preventing gum disease.

We provide preventative care treatments to our patients to help avoid common dental problems. Fuller Dental in Burlington, North Carolina offers periodontal therapy to treat this progressive disease.

Signs & Symptoms of Gum Disease

Research has shown links between gum disease and heart disease, diabetes, low birth weight, and other health conditions. Because of this, you should never ignore the signs of gum disease. If you notice any changes in your oral health, including swelling, tender gums, or bleeding gums, contact your Fuller Dental dentist as soon as possible.

  • Bleeding gums
  • Swelling
  • Sensitivity in the gums
  • White or red patches on the gums
  • Loose teeth
  • Tooth sensitivity or pain
  • Chronic Halitosis

Progression of Gum Disease

Gum Disease is a progressive condition that gets worse if left untreated. Gum disease begins when tartar and plaque build up under the gums. Bacteria grow by feeding off of the tartar and plaque and start to spread through the gums. It can even eventually enter the bloodstream.

As the bacteria spread, they form deep pockets in the gum line. These pockets can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth. This leads to gum recession, tooth loss, and bone loss. When caught in the early stages, gum disease is treatable. Your dentist can remove the tartar, plaque, and bacteria under the gums. This will allow the gums to heal and reattach to the tooth. It is important to remove tartar and plaque because it can also cause tooth decay.

Treatment of periodontal disease and gingivitis
Gum Disease Treatment FAQs

What happens if gum disease advances?

If gum disease is left untreated, it will lead to bone loss. This will cause the structure of the face to change. Facial sagging and deep wrinkles will form because of the recessed jaw bone. Tooth loss is also possible. The bone and gums hold teeth in place. Once they are compromised, there is nothing to secure the teeth. Last, advanced gum disease can lead to many health problems, such as heart disease and stroke.

Will I need surgery for gum disease?

If you have advanced periodontitis that has reached your jawbone, then you may need oral surgery. Mild to moderate gingivitis can be addressed with non-invasive dental treatments. Thorough dental cleaning for gum disease (scaling and root planing) is usually prescribed for most patients with bleeding gums and gingivitis.

Does gum disease treatment hurt?

You’ll feel some discomfort but probably experience much less pain than you’re fearing. We use a local anesthetic to numb the entire area that we’ll be treating before we move forward with the procedure. Many patients avoid seeking treatment because they’re afraid it’s going to be painful. Getting treatment earlier means it’s less painful and easier to manage than if you wait longer. We always recommend early intervention to take care of your dental problems.

Will I lose my teeth from gum disease?

You can if it remains untreated. Severe gum disease eats away at the foundation the teeth have to stay in your mouth. They start becoming loose and can fall out if you continue to avoid treatment. Gum disease eats away both the gum tissue and bone structure in your mouth due to the aggressive bacteria present with periodontal disease.

Do I need gum disease treatment?

Early signs of gum disease are harder to notice, so many adults have gingivitis and don’t even realize it. The signs aren’t painful, making them easier to ignore. The most common symptom is bleeding gums. If you notice your gums bleeding after you brush your teeth, especially if it’s happening multiple times a week, call our office. This is a good indicator that the bacteria for gum disease are present.

 How can I prevent gingivitis from returning after treatment?

The best way to fight gum disease is to prevent it. Patients practice proper daily oral hygiene and visit our Burlington, NC dentist office once every six months. Routine dental health exams and professional teeth cleanings can help keep oral bacteria in check. This will prevent the development of gum disease. They also allow your Fuller Dental dentist to spot any signs of oral health concerns. Problems caught in the early stages allow for efficient and conservative treatment.

Treatment Options for Gum Disease

There are different treatment options for gum disease that depend on the severity of the condition.

Scaling and Root Planing (Gum Therapy)

Scaling and root planing is the most common mild to moderate gum disease treatment. This form of gum therapy uses extensive cleaning techniques to remove bacteria from the teeth and the gums.

First, your dentist will use special tools to scrape bacteria from the oral cavity. Then, they will smooth out the root surfaces, which helps the gums heal and reattach to the teeth roots. Your dentist may suggest an antibacterial mouth rinse to help keep oral bacteria in check while the gums heal.

Restorative Dentistry

Some patients may require restorative dental procedures to replace missing teeth or rebuild the bone structure. Fuller Dental offers full-service dental implants, dentures, and All-On-Four implant dentures to replace missing teeth associated with gum disease.

Our dentists are International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI) dentists with extensive training and experience in dental implant placement and restoration.


Schedule Dental Exam Today

Fuller Dental in Burlington, NC offers periodontal therapy for those who suffer from gum disease. Dr. Fuller leads a team of highly trained and experienced dentists that provide high-quality dental care.

If you want treatment options for gum disease or associated oral health concerns, visit Fuller Dental Burlington, NC. Request a consultation online or call our dentist office at (336) 290-7401.