Appointment Request
Gum disease often starts small, and the earliest form, gingivitis, is often reversible with improved oral hygiene habits. However, some patients don’t realize they have a problem, so their condition progresses into more advanced stages, putting their oral health at risk.
Thankfully, your periodontist offers various services to help halt the disease in its tracks and protect your smile. But it’s important that you’re well-informed before proceeding with any potential treatments. Continue reading to learn more about 3 things to ask your provider during your initial consultation so you know what to expect!
Question #1: What Causes Gum Disease?
If you’re unsure of the potential causes of gum disease, you might not know that you’ve developed an issue that requires attention. Periodontal disease occurs when unhealthy bacteria in your mouth form plaque along your gumline, which can penetrate the connective tissues. This may be due to poor oral hygiene habits, excessive consumption of sugary foods, or a genetic predisposition to certain dental concerns.
Whatever the cause, if germs penetrate your tissues, they can trigger an infection that often results in swollen, dark, or sensitive gums that tend to bleed when brushing or flossing. If left unaddressed, this is likely to evolve into more serious concerns, such as periodontitis, which is listed as the leading cause of permanent tooth loss in adults.
Question #2: How is Gum Disease Treated?
During your initial appointment, your periodontist will examine your teeth and gums and may take additional scans or X-rays to verify whether any issues have also developed beneath the surface. Then, they’ll devise an appropriate treatment plan based on their findings, which might include:
- Scaling and root planning. This two-part procedure typically happens over separate visits. First, we’ll provide a professional cleaning to clear away stubborn bacteria and tartar that have gathered deep in the pockets of your gums. At the second visit, we’ll gently smooth areas of your enamel to encourage your connective tissues to reattach, helping prevent recession.
- Antibiotics. Some providers also offer medications to help your immune system fight off unhealthy germs that contribute to infections, such as gum disease.
- Surgical procedures. Your periodontist might also offer surgical options, like gum grafting, to address your receding tissues and prevent tooth loss while improving your appearance.
Question #3: Do You Offer Dental Sedation?
Deep cleaning your gums might leave your mouth feeling sore or sensitive, and some patients struggle to sit still through the procedure. If you’re anxious about potential discomfort, you can ask your periodontist whether they offer options for dental sedation.
Different medications, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral conscious sedation in pill form, can help you feel calm and comfortable throughout your appointment.
If you have other pressing questions about your current condition or how your provider hopes to address it, feel free to bring them up before approving their suggested treatment plan!
About the Practice
At Utah Implants & Periodontics, patients benefit from two experts who are passionate about helping them build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. Dr. Wood and Dr. Long are both board-certified periodontists who collaborate to offer a variety of complex and surgical procedures to meet your unique needs, including gum disease treatments. Their compassionate approach and expertise are combined with state-of-the-art equipment to deliver accurate results meant to last. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (801) 322-5032.