Gum Disease - Modesto, CA
Gums Swollen And Bleeding?Early Stage Gum Disease Is Curable
Swollen, painful gums are some of the earliest signs of gum disease. While unpleasant, it is also a good warning sign that your gums need treatment. Pay attention to it. Early-stage gum disease is known as gingivitis. If you do not treat your gums at an early stage, your gums can reach an untreatable stage known as periodontitis, also known as, gum disease. At that point, you are potentially facing tooth loss. But the complications do not end there. According to extensive research, the bacteria behind gum disease can also affect systemic problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and strokes. Find trusted treatment for gum disease in Modesto, CA here.
At Central Valley Periodontics & Implants, we are dedicated to treating your gum disease before it gets out of control and causes you serious problems. As a board-certified periodontist, Dr. Clarke Filippi specializes in diagnosing and treating all diseases of the gums. With years of advanced training beyond dental school and continuing education in the newest techniques and technologies, he can help you get a handle on your gum disease before it is too late. Reach out to us at the first signs of gum disease.
Gum Disease Warning Signs
Two Proven Treatment Paths
Early-Stage Gum Disease Treatment
Scaling and root planing are the typical treatment for early-stage gum disease. Scaling is a process in which plaque, tartar (calculus) and staining is removed from above the gumline. Root planing is when tartar is removed from below the gumline and the roots are smoothed. Since bacteria can hide and grow in even the smallest tooth crevices, this is less likely to occur when the roots are smooth. Once scaling and root planing are completed, the gums have the ability to reattach to the tooth root. In many cases, Dr. Filippi will recommend ongoing periodontal maintenance as a follow-up treatment no matter the stage of your gum disease. During these recurring visits—usually every three to four months—his office will do additional deep cleanings as needed to keep bacteria from accumulating and causing reinfection.
Advanced Gum Disease Treatment
If your gum disease reaches an advanced state, Dr. Filippi may suggest osseous surgery (flap surgery). This is a more complex treatment for which Dr. Filippi may administer sedation to keep you comfortable during treatment. During the procedure, he retracts the infected gum tissue to reach your tooth roots and bone underneath. There he removes any accumulated tartar as well as any diseased gum tissue. In certain instances, he might be able to rebuild the bone through bone grafting. This treatment will not cure your gum disease, but when done along with a regular periodontal maintenance routine, can keep gum disease manageable.
