Questions to Ask Your Periodontist About Gum Disease

If you have recently been diagnosed with gum disease, you’re not alone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that at least 50% of adults have the preventable infection. Although it’s easy to treat during the early stage called gingivitis, with no intervention, it can lead to tooth loss and affect your general health. Your periodontist has the solutions you need to restore your gum health. Here are 4 questions to ask during your consultation for gum disease therapy.

1. What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an infection caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar buildup. Initially, the gums become irritated, causing inflammation, redness, and bleeding. Gingivitis is easy to treat and won’t cause any long-term damage, but if the infection isn’t addressed, it can progress to advanced periodontitis. 

At this point, you can experience irreversible damage to your smile and it’s linked to various health issues, including cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

2. How is Gum Disease Treated?

Every mouth and situation differs, so there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment. After examining your mouth, your periodontist will recommend which procedures are right for you, like:

• Scaling & Root Planing: Also known as a deep cleaning, special dental instruments are used to remove tartar buildup above and below the gum line. The root surfaces are smoothed to discourage future buildup.
• Soft Tissue Laser Therapy: A soft tissue laser can remove diseased tissue. It will stimulate the production of healthy tissue to prevent the infection from recurring.
• Antibiotic Therapy: A topical antibiotic can be placed in the gingival pockets to treat the infection.

3. How Often Will I Need Follow-Up Appointments?

Your periodontist will need to monitor your gum health to ensure the infection has been resolved fully. Every situation differs, but most patients need to check in with their periodontist every 3 months. After your gum health has been restored, you can resume visiting your dentist every 6 months for cleaning and checkup.

4. Can Gum Disease Come Back?

Gum disease can come back if you aren’t proactive about your dental health. Brushing twice a day isn’t enough to keep your gums healthy. Brushing alone can leave up to 40% of your teeth surfaces uncleaned. Flossing is the only way to remove the buildup between your teeth and around the gum line to prevent infections. Finish up your routine with an antimicrobial mouthwash. It’s best to stop smoking and avoid alcohol. Don’t forget to visit your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.

Your periodontist will explain everything during your consultation and answer your questions, so you know exactly what to expect on the road ahead.

About Dr. Dennis Winson

Dr. Winson earned his dental degree from the Georgetown Dental School and achieved his Certificate in Periodontology from the University of Pennsylvania. He regularly continues his education to provide the latest innovations in dentistry. As a member of the DC Dental Society and the American Academy of Periodontology, he has qualifications you can trust. Request an appointment through our website or call (202) 775-0022.