Promoting Healthy Gums and Healthy Lives

Gum Disease Austin

Poor oral hygiene can lead to considerable dental issues, including periodontal disease, or gum disease. At the Austin, Texas practice of Dr. Robert T. Wootton, Midtown Dental Associates, we aim at preventing such problems from occurring as best we can. However, when the condition does arise, Dr. Wootton administers necessary treatment.

Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums, and comes in varying degrees of severity. When left untreated, gum disease becomes exacerbated, and tooth loss is inevitable. The goal is to detect and cure gum disease at its earliest stage, therefore eliminating the domino effect of it manifesting into a much more serious problem. If you are experiencing symptoms, it is important to seek treatment right away. To learn more about gum disease or to schedule an appointment, contact our Austin dental office today. 

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Some individuals experience no symptoms of gum disease at all, making it even more necessary to see Dr. Wootton for routine examinations. However, some do experience symptoms, which may include:

• Bleeding from brushing, flossing, or eating
• Swollen or red gums
• Bad breath
• Gum recession
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Newly misaligned bite
• Pus-like fluid exuding from between teeth

Types of Gum Disease    

There are various types of gum disease, all of which Dr. Wootton has experience diagnosing and treating, including:

Gingivitis – the least severe form of the disease, gingivitis is reversible. Patients may notice bleeding, swollen, or red gums, typically caused by poor oral hygiene. Gingivitis is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Dr. Wootton will help to correct the condition and also educate the patient on proper preventive measures so as to avoid it recurring.

Chronic periodontitis – The most common symptoms of chronic periodontitis are progressively receding gums, and a small pocket forming in between the tooth and the gum. This condition isn’t curable, however, is treatable – Dr. Wootton can stop the advancement of the disorder.   

Aggressive periodontitis – This condition is the same as chronic periodontitis, however deterioration of the tissue and bone occurs at a much quicker pace. Dr. Wootton can treat aggressive periodontitis, though surgical intervention may be required.

Systemic disease periodontitis – Gum disease can occur due to another health condition, such as heart disease or diabetes. This type of periodontitis can be treated; however, the medical condition causing the gum disease must first be controlled. 

Necrotizing periodontal disease – This infection involves the destruction of the gum tissue, periodontal ligament, and bone. People who have HIV or immunosuppression, or who are malnourished, stressed, or smoke cigarettes are most susceptible to this rare condition.   

Gum Disease Treatment

Treatment for periodontal disease will depend on the extent and type of the condition. Dr. Wootton will recommend the best course of action, which may include:

• Scaling and root planing – A deep cleaning is administered to eliminate plaque, tarter, and harmful bacteria underneath the gums. Antibiotics or mouth wash may also be prescribed.
• Tissue regeneration – Grafting procedures are used to promote re-growth of lost bone and gum tissue.
• Flap surgery – This surgical procedure reduces or eliminates the pocket between the teeth and gums.
• Dental implants – If a patient is missing teeth due to gum disease, Dr. Wootton recommends dental implants to restore the strength and functionality of the teeth.

Causes of Gum Disease

Gum disease is caused by:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Smoking or other tobacco use
• Genetics
• Stress
• Poor diet
• Diabetes or other health conditions
• Teeth grinding
• Certain medications

Learn More about Gum Disease

Gum disease is not a matter to be taken lightly. It is imperative to your oral and overall health that you seek treatment immediately if you are experiencing symptoms. Gum disease can be prevented, and all individuals are encouraged to see the dentist regularly to catch early onset of the condition. To learn more about gum disease, contact our Austin dental practice today.