Periodontal Disease Treatment in Hurricane, UT

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and tissues that support your teeth. It’s caused by bacteria that grow in your mouth and form a sticky film called plaque. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and causes inflammation.  

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. It is characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed when you brush or floss. If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis. 

Periodontitis is a more advanced stage of gum disease. The infection causes your gums to pull away from your teeth, creating pockets where more bacteria and plaque can build up. Over time, these pockets become deeper and more infected. Eventually, the bone that supports your teeth can get damaged, leading to tooth loss.  

At MountainView Dental, our dentist in Hurricane, UT may recommend non-surgical or surgical treatments to treat your gum disease. Non-surgical treatments include scaling and root planing, which involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Surgical treatments include flap surgery, bone grafting, and soft tissue grafting.  

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease 

• Swollen, red, and tender gums are a hallmark sign of gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontal disease. 
• Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing are a common indication of gum disease. 
• Chronic bad breath, also known as halitosis, can result from the bacteria associated with gum disease. 
• Gums that pull away from the teeth making the teeth appear longer, can be a sign of more advanced gum disease. 
• As gum disease progresses, it can cause tooth mobility or shifting. 
• In severe cases, pockets of pus may form around the teeth and gums. 

Periodontal Disease Treatment Options 

Scaling and Root Planing

This non-surgical procedure in Hurricane, UT, involves removing plaque and tartar from the tooth and root surfaces below the gumline. It helps to eliminate bacterial buildup and promote gum healing.  

Antibiotics 

In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to control infection and inflammation. They can be administered topically or orally. 

Pocket Reduction Surgery

For advanced cases where deep pockets have formed between the gums and teeth, surgical intervention may be necessary to reduce pocket depth and improve oral health. 

Gum Grafting 

In gum recession cases, gum grafting may be performed to restore gum tissue and protect tooth roots. 

Bone Grafting

Severe gum disease can lead to bone loss around teeth. Bone grafting procedures can rebuild lost bone tissue. 

Laser Therapy

Some dentists use laser technology to remove infected tissue and bacteria from periodontal pockets. 

Effective treatment of periodontal disease is not just about saving teeth; it's about safeguarding overall health. If you suspect you have gum disease or are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned, visit MountainView Dental at 52 South 850 West, Suite 201, Hurricane, UT 84737, or call (435) 635-9471. Our dentist can assess your condition, recommend appropriate treatment, and guide you towards a healthier smile and life.