Dr. Jafari may recommend a periodontal treatment to manage gum disease and improve your oral health. Our dentist and team will check your gums during your regular dental exams to ensure they are in good health and diagnose and treat any problems that may be developing. We invite you to call Inova Dental Clinic at 703-433-1400 to schedule a consultation and learn more about periodontics in Sterling, Virginia.
Our periodontal services include:
Periodontics is a specialized field within dentistry that concentrates on safeguarding oral health by preventing, diagnosing and treating periodontal disease along with other conditions affecting the soft tissues and gums in the mouth. Also referred to as gum disease, periodontal disease stems from bacterial activity within plaque. When plaque accumulates on teeth surfaces, the bacteria provoke irritation and inflammation in the gum tissues. If left unattended, this initial stage known as gingivitis can escalate into a more advanced condition termed periodontitis.
Gingivitis is identifiable through signs such as tender, red and swollen gums that bleed easily. In the more advanced stage of periodontitis, gum recession becomes apparent, coupled with potential bone loss and even tooth loss. Timely intervention can usually reverse gingivitis through professional cleanings and enhanced oral care at home. In contrast, treating periodontitis generally demands more intricate and frequent therapeutic measures. Our practice takes pride in delivering top-tier treatment for gum disease, aimed at restoring optimal oral health.
While our dentist and team provide some periodontal treatments for the early stage of gum disease, we also work with a trusted periodontal specialist to ensure patients with a more advanced stage of the disease receive treatments that meet their needs. We also work with this periodontal specialist to ensure proper dental implant placement prior to creating your implant restorations.
Gum Disease FAQ
What is gum disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious condition that affects the gums and, if left untreated, can lead to the loss of teeth. It is caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Gum disease ranges from simple gum inflammation, known as gingivitis, to more severe forms, such as periodontitis, which can damage the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by harmful bacteria trapped in plaque. As plaque builds up on the teeth and hardens into calculus (tartar), this bacteria infects and inflames your gum tissues. As the disease becomes more established, gum attachments will begin to separate from your teeth and create pockets that harbor these bacteria and continue to advance the disease. Factors which contribute to the development of periodontal disease include poor oral hygiene, smoking and use of other tobacco products, genetics, systemic conditions such as diabetes and illnesses that affect the immune system and hormonal changes such as those occurring during pregnancy.
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Common symptoms of gum disease include:
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
- Receding gums or longer appearing teeth
- Loose or separating teeth
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
What can I do at home to prevent gum disease?
Preventing gum disease involves taking steps to maintain good oral hygiene. This includes:
- Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing daily to remove plaque between teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach.
- Using an antiseptic mouthwash to help reduce plaque and remove food particles.
- Quitting smoking, as it is strongly associated with the onset of gum disease.
- Eating a balanced diet and limiting snacks between meals.
- Visiting our dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
What are my treatment options for gum disease?
Treatments for gum disease depend on the severity of your condition. The early stage of gum disease, gingivitis, can often be halted or even reversed with professional dental cleanings and good oral hygiene practices at home. More severe stages of the disease can be treated with scaling and root planing, antibiotic medications or surgical procedures. Our dentist will discuss your options with you so you can make a fully informed decision about your treatment plan prior to receiving care.
For a comprehensive understanding of periodontics and how we can nurture your smile, we encourage you to reach out to us today. Our skilled dentist and team eagerly anticipate the opportunity to serve you with utmost care.