Periodontal Disease in Haslet, TX

Gum (periodontal) disease is a condition of inflammation in the gums that may lead to critical damage to your oral health. To deal with gum disease, dentist Luke Riley provides different treatments based on the intensity of the disease, such as antibiotics, scaling and root planing, and extractions. There are several stages of periodontal disease that range from mild to advanced. The very first phase is gingivitis, which is brought on by a plaque buildup under the gumline. Without treatment, gingivitis may develop into the next phase, called periodontitis, which impacts the fibers and bone that support your tooth roots. Advanced periodontitis is the last phase of periodontal disease, which may cause loose or lost teeth. When you have symptoms of a periodontal infection, get in touch with Riley Dental in Haslet, TX to schedule an examination with Dr. Riley.

Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, isn't easy to discover by yourself, which is the reason why it's very important to schedule yearly dental examinations at Riley Dental. This provides Dr. Riley a chance to check your gums so he can recognize and address the problem before it affects your mouth and general wellbeing. As periodontal disease gets worse, signs will include swollen or red gums, bleeding due to regular flossing and brushing, a separated or receded gumline, and chronic halitosis (bad breath). In the subsequent phases of periodontal disease, you could also feel pain when chewing and sensitivity to cold and hot foods. It's crucial to schedule an appointment if you're sensing any of these signs so the disease can be addressed before it gets into your blood stream.

Your periodontal treatment will be based on the intensity or stage of the disease. If Dr. Riley determines you have periodontal disease, he will discuss his suggestions for your treatment program. In cases caught early, scaling and root planing (SRP) is usually done to clean out your gum pockets. Dr. Riley will also use an antiseptic during this procedure to help kill any remaining bacteria in the gum pockets and flush them away from the gums. In more serious cases, antibiotics can be placed beneath the gums or taken along with numerous SRP procedures. Acute cases of gum disease normally call for gum surgery like pocket reduction or gum grafting.

Based upon the stage of gum disease and treatment program, your recovery period will vary. You might need to have a number of appointments at Riley Dental to completely correct your periodontal disorder. After your dental health is restored, you must continue attending regular dental exams and cleanings at Riley Dental. It's also critical to keep up a daily home dental hygiene regimen, including flossing and brushing. Dr. Riley may suggest an antibacterial mouthwash or toothpaste to reduce your chance of developing another periodontal disorder.

Expenses for gum disease therapy will depend upon the seriousness of the illness as well as the processes required. If you are using dental insurance, our office will talk to your insurance provider to ascertain what they pay and if there will be any extra expenses. For patients with no insurance, Riley Dental offers many payment plans, and we will be able to help you to find third-party financing via CareCredit. Questions about costs? Please speak to Dr. Riley during your consultation. Not going to the dentist due to fiscal concerns can lead to larger problems and much more costly therapies.

Can periodontal disease be prevented?
Yes, periodontal disease can often be prevented through regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings, which help remove plaque and tartar. Attending routine dental exams at Riley Dental also helps in early detection and prevention of gum disease, keeping your gums healthy.

What happens if periodontal disease goes untreated?
If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to gum recession and tooth loss and even affect your overall health, contributing to chronic inflammation in the body. Advanced cases can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes complications, and other health issues, making treatment essential.

Is periodontal treatment painful?
Most treatments, like scaling and root planing, are performed with local anesthesia to minimize discomfort and ensure a smooth experience. Riley Dental prioritizes patients' care and well-being and ensures that they are as comfortable as possible throughout their treatment.

Periodontal disease will get worse if you don't get the correct therapy, so it's crucial to get expert help when any signs occur. At Riley Dental, we work with you to renew your gums and avoid future onsets of disease. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Riley, get in touch with our office in Haslet, TX.