Comprehensive Gum Disease Treatment in Livonia
Unhealthy gums threaten the look, feel, and function of your smile as well as your overall well-being. Unfortunately, most people don’t even know that they have gum disease until it is painfully obvious. If your gums are red and tender or bleed when brushing and flossing, it could be a sign of gum disease.
At the practice of Timothy Thomas, DDS, our compassionate team is highly skilled and experienced in preventing and solving gum problems. Whether you require moderate or extensive gum treatment, our dental practice is expertly equipped with advanced technology and techniques to provide you with the level of care you need. We are also passionate about empowering you with simple steps you can take to prevent gum disease and maintain good oral health.
Since 1987, our skilled team has provided exceptional dental care to the residents of Livonia and the neighboring communities and cannot wait to help you regain and protect your oral health. If you suspect you have gum disease, do not hesitate to call us. The earlier you start treatment, the better it is for your oral health. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation with our team.
CALL US: (734) 447-5250 REQUEST APPOINTMENT
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, otherwise known as periodontal disease, is an inflammation and infection that attacks the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. The accumulation of bacteria in the dental plaque above and below the gum line irritates the surrounding tissue. In the beginning stages of gum disease, you might notice occasional tenderness and redness in the gums, particularly when brushing or flossing. If not addressed, the build-up of bacteria can cause progressive damage to the gums, teeth, and jaws and can even lead to serious oral health complications such as receding gums, tooth loss, and even bone loss.
Gum disease occurs in three stages with increasing severity. The first stage, gingivitis, manifests as occasional inflammation of the gum tissue and can be easily treated with one to two regular cleanings if no damage has been done.
If left untreated, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis. The gums start to pull away from the teeth and create pockets between the teeth, which then get filled with plaque, tartar, and bacteria. If the disease is not addressed at this stage, it paves the way to advanced periodontitis, which is the most complex and difficult stage of gum disease to treat. In the latter stages, special periodontal cleaning is required, and in some extreme cases, we may recommend periodontal surgery.
How Do You Know You Have Gum Disease?
The most common cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. However, there are other contributing factors that accelerate its progress, including genetics, health issues such as diabetes, certain medications, and even hormone changes during pregnancy.
At the practice of Timothy Thomas, DDS, we use an intraoral camera for diagnosis that allows us to show you what we see and to recognize the problem and its urgency.
As the disease progresses and becomes more obvious, there are signs you can look out for, including:
- Swollen and tender gums
- Bleeding when brushing and flossing
- Receding gums
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Pain when chewing
- Halitosis and a bad taste in the mouth
Skilled Approach to Gum Disease Treatment in Livonia
Dr. Thomas and our team understand how complex gum disease can be, which is why we employ a well-measured approach to treatment that promotes comprehensive treatment and prevention. During your first visit to our office, our team will conduct a thorough assessment that includes using advanced technology, such as our intraoral camera, and an in-depth look at your medical history to get a clear understanding of your situation. Dr. Thomas will then use this information to develop a comprehensive treatment plan designed to restore your
Our team also comprises two skilled hygienists so that we can provide high-quality care and attention at all times. Some of our routine gum disease treatments in Livonia include:
Scaling and Root Planing: Scaling is a special periodontal cleaning that removes plaque, tartar, and toxins from above and below the gum line. We perform scaling on one quadrant of the mouth at a time, numbing each area before beginning treatment. Planing involves the smoothing of rough spots on the root surfaces. This procedure is highly effective at helping heal gum tissue and shrink periodontal pockets. We may recommend antibiotics, special medicated mouth rinses, and specific oral hygiene practices to promote healing and control the infection.
Pocket Reduction Surgery: In cases where the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planning, Dr. Thomas will perform surgical pocket reduction surgery to reduce the depth and make it easier to clean the teeth. In more advanced cases, we will refer you to a periodontist for specialized attention to the gums and supporting bone.
Maintenance: Our team also follows up with extra cleanings and maintenance to restore your oral health and prevent gum disease from reoccurring. We also provide dietary advice and educate you on proper oral hygiene techniques for long-term oral health.
Experienced Gum Disease Treatment in Livonia
At the practice of Timothy Thomas, DDS, our mission is to provide compassionate, effective, and accessible dentistry to the adults and seniors of Livonia and the neighboring communities. We feel privileged to use our skills and experience to offer life-changing gum disease treatments that help you look and feel your best. The team is eager to help you regain your smile and oral health so get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment.
CALL US: (734) 447-5250 REQUEST APPOINTMENT
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