Gum disease typically begins from a lack of routine flossing, inadequate brushing, and infrequent dental checkups. Over time, plaque buildup begins to accumulate on our teeth. When it isn’t thoroughly removed on a regular basis, plaque hardens into tartar, providing a breeding ground for harmful bacteria under your gums and around the roots of your teeth.

Early signs of gum disease include redness, swelling, bleeding while brushing or flossing, and persistent bad breath. If left untreated, it almost always evolves into a more severe infection, leading to tooth loss and an elevated risk for:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Pneumonia
• Diabetes
• Infertility
• Preeclampsia
• Erectile dysfunction
• Dementia

TREATMENT FOR GUM DISEASE IN WEST DES MOINES

Fortunately, gum disease is treatable and can be managed with professional soft tissue treatments at Plaza Dental Group. Depending on the extent of your infection and the amount of bone loss that has occurred, we may recommend periodontal treatments such as:

Scaling and Root Planning: This deep cleaning process removes plaque and tartar from below the gumlines, stopping the disease cycle.

Antibiotics: In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to control bacterial levels and reduce inflammation when paired with a deep cleaning.

Laser Therapy: Soft tissue laser technology can be used to remove infected tissue and promote gum healing without damaging surrounding tissues.

Gum or Bone Grafting: If severe bone loss or gum recession has occurred, a graft may be recommended to stabilize and protect the tooth roots involved.

Ongoing Maintenance: Periodontal maintenance cleanings are essential to monitor your gum health and prevent the recurrence of gum disease.