At Hazel Dell Dental Care, Dr. Erik Jenson and our caring team are committed to helping you maintain healthy gums for a lifetime. Gum disease affects nearly half of all American adults and is the leading cause of tooth loss. The good news is that with proper care and treatment, gum disease can be managed and even reversed in its early stages. Our Vancouver, WA practice offers comprehensive periodontal disease treatment to restore your gum health and protect your smile.
Understanding Gum Disease: Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis
Gum disease progresses in stages, beginning with mild inflammation and potentially advancing to a serious infection that damages the structures supporting your teeth. Understanding the difference between these stages helps you recognize symptoms early when treatment is most effective. Dr. Jenson thoroughly evaluates your gum health to determine which stage you’re in and create the most appropriate restorative treatment plan.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease that causes inflammation of your gums. At this stage, the damage is minimal and completely reversible with proper dental care. Signs of gingivitis include:
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Tender gums
- Bad breath that won’t go away
What is Periodontitis?
If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more serious form of gum disease. During this stage, the infection damages the bone and tissues supporting your teeth. Signs of periodontitis include:
- Gums pulling away from teeth (receding gums)
- Spaces or “pockets” form between teeth and gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in how your teeth fit together when biting
- Painful chewing
- New spaces appearing between teeth
Why Treating Gum Disease Is Important
Treating gum disease improves your oral health and your overall health. Research has linked gum disease to serious health conditions including heart disease, diabetes complications, stroke, respiratory issues, and pregnancy complications. The bacteria and inflammation associated with gum disease can travel throughout your bloodstream, potentially affecting other parts of your body.
By seeking treatment for gum disease, you’re not only preserving your teeth and smile but potentially protecting your entire body from inflammation-related problems. Early intervention prevents permanent damage to your gums and bone, saving you from more extensive and costly treatments in the future.
Our Periodontal Disease Treatment Options
At Hazel Dell Dental Care, Dr. Jenson offers several effective treatments for gum disease. He’ll recommend a treatment for you based on the severity of your infection and your specific needs.
Scaling and Root Planing
This deep-cleaning procedure is our first line of defense against gum disease. During scaling, we carefully remove plaque and tartar from above and below your gum line. Root planing smooths rough spots on tooth roots where bacteria collect, helping your gums reattach to your teeth. We use gentle techniques and can provide local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
Antibiotic Therapy
To help control bacterial infection, Dr. Jenson may recommend antibiotic treatments. These might include antibiotic mouth rinses, prescribed oral antibiotics, or special medications placed directly into the gum pockets after scaling and root planing.
Pocket Reduction Surgery
For advanced cases where deep pockets remain after scaling and root planing, Dr. Jenson may recommend pocket reduction surgery. This procedure involves folding back the gum tissue to remove disease-causing bacteria and smooth damaged bone, allowing the gum tissue to reattach to healthy bone.
Gum Grafts
If your gums have receded significantly, exposing tooth roots, Dr. Jenson may suggest gum grafts. This procedure takes tissue from another area of your mouth (usually the roof) and attaches it to areas where gums have receded, protecting sensitive roots and improving the appearance of your smile.
Laser Therapy
Our practice uses advanced laser technology to target and remove infected gum tissue with minimal discomfort. Laser therapy is precise, reduces bleeding and swelling, and promotes faster healing compared to traditional methods.
Ongoing Maintenance
After your initial treatment, Dr. Jenson will develop a personalized maintenance plan to keep your gums healthy. This typically includes more frequent professional cleanings (every 3-4 months) and guidance on improving your home care routine.
Why Choose Hazel Dell Dental Care for Periodontal Treatment
When you choose Dr. Erik Jenson for your periodontal treatment, you’re partnering with a team that truly cares about your long-term oral health and overall well-being. Our practice combines clinical excellence with compassionate care to ensure that every patient feels comfortable and confident in their treatment decisions.
Dr. Jenson has dedicated significant time to advancing his knowledge in periodontal therapies, staying current with the latest research and techniques. We understand that gum disease treatment can sometimes feel overwhelming, which is why we take the time to thoroughly explain your condition, treatment options, and expected outcomes in terms you can understand.
Schedule Your Periodontal Evaluation Today
Don’t wait until gum disease causes irreversible damage to your smile. Early intervention is key to successful treatment and maintaining your natural teeth for life.
Contact Hazel Dell Dental Care today at (360) 233-8831
to schedule your comprehensive periodontal evaluation with Dr. Erik Jenson. You can also use our convenient online request appointment form. Our friendly team in Vancouver, WA is ready to help you achieve optimal gum health and a confident smile.