Baltimore area native Dr. Welinsky offers comprehensive dental care, including periodontal therapy for treating the various symptoms of gum disease and bringing your beautiful smile back to fruition. He also provides high-quality restorative dentistry services.
Maintaining the health of your gums is the key to enjoying a lifetime of dental health. Gum disease affects more than 75% of adults at some point in their lives and remains the leading cause of tooth loss. Routine dental care provides the opportunity for Dr. Welinsky to spot the early signs of gum disease during a periodontal screening, significantly reducing the risk of damage to the teeth and gums.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease has two stages and can often progress unnoticed in patients who do not receive regular dental care or are prone to periodontal disease. Early intervention can avoid deteriorating dental health and the need for extensive treatment to address damage to both the teeth and the gums.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the start of gum disease. Your gums have been infected by bacteria and become red, swollen, and inflamed. At this stage, gum disease is still reversible. Your dentist may recommend antibacterial mouth rinses, scaling and root planing, and other methods. If you notice any of the symptoms of gum disease, you should call us right away. This helps us catch it in this stage, and avoid damage to your mouth if the disease progresses.
Periodontitis
Slight to moderate gum disease occurs when the infection spreads further and starts to impact your bones and can get in your bloodstream. Deep pockets of bacteria form. Often, scaling and root planing is done at this stage to clean out those gum pockets and smooth down the tooth roots. This allows the gums to reattach to the bones and teeth properly.
Severe Periodontitis
At this stage, surgical intervention is usually needed. There are deep gum pockets that are filled with pus. The bone is impacted and starts to deteriorate. If left untreated, you can experience loose teeth or even tooth loss. Your gums are recessing and it can be painful to chew.
Common Signs of Gum Disease
Understanding and recognizing the signs of gum disease can prevent progression and possible damage to teeth and gums. Common signs and symptoms can include:
- Red or swollen gums
- Receding Gums
- Loose or shifted teeth
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Changes in the fit of dentures
- Sores in the mouth
Periodontal Therapy: What to Expect
Dr. Welinsky will conduct a thorough evaluation of your oral health and recommend the appropriate periodontal therapy for your specific needs. Treatment will depend on the stage of gum disease and any contributing medical or lifestyle factors. Treatment options can include:
Anti-bacterial Rinses
For early-stage gum disease, an antibacterial rinse can reduce the presence of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
Scaling and Root Planing
A thorough cleaning technique performed in our office removes plaque from the tooth roots and deep recesses of the gums
Referral to a Specialist
For advanced cases of gum disease requiring more extensive treatment, Dr. Welinsky will refer patients to a local specialist.
Periodontal Therapy FAQs
Can gum disease go away on its own?
No. Gum disease is an infection of the gums and surrounding tissue. If left alone, it will get progressively worse and can lead to consequences like losing teeth.
How long does it take for gum disease to progress?
When you have the really early stages of gum disease, called gingivitis, you can get inflammation within five days. After two to three weeks, it starts to progress into the early stages of periodontal disease.
Why is treating gum disease so important?
Gum disease is connected to further issues throughout your body. The bacteria from the gum infection can get into your bloodstream, carrying inflammation throughout your body. For instance, you’re more likely to have problems with heart disease and strokes if you have gum disease.
Schedule a Dental Care Exam
Are you experiencing swelling, bleeding, or receding gums, loose teeth, or chronic bad breath? If so, a consultation with Dr. Welinsky is highly recommended. We are always looking for new patients to join our family practice. Contact us at 410-321-8480 or use our online appointment request form and we will contact you shortly. Our Baltimore, MD area dentist office is convenient for patients in Towson, West Towson, Parkville, and many suburbs in Baltimore, MD.