Gum Disease Treatment in Racine, WI

Gum disease negatively affects oral health and also overall health. People experiencing gum disease will have gum tissue that is red, puffy and bleeds; there may even be pus that comes out from around the teeth- afterall gum disease is considered an infection of the gum tissue. In addition, gum disease causes bad breath and affects the appearance of your smile. The infection may be "localized" to one area of the mouth or may be widespread, affecting each tooth and the surrounding gums. If left untreated at the earlier stages, getting gum disease under control can become more difficult and involved, potentially leading to lost teeth.

What causes gum disease?

• The leading cause of gum disease is the accumulated plaque and tartar on the surface of the teeth. This accumlated bacteria causes the gum tissues to become infected. If left untreated over time, the infection increases in severity.
• Improper or irregular brushing of teeth can lead to the excessive accumulation of bacteria in the mouth. Different types of bacteria cause gum disease.
• If a tooth dies, or becomes necrotic, and is left in the mouth untreated, the infection from the tooth can spread through the bottom of the tooth and into the gum tissue. 
• Systemic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease can contribute to gum disease, and conversely, gum disease can contribute to worsening those systemic diseases. 

Symptoms

• Bleeding and oozing of pus from the gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Jawbone deterioration
• Loosening of the teeth from the sockets
• Severe pain white biting and chewing food

How can gum disease be treated?

Dentists always recommend their patients treat gum disease, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, at the earliest to avoid complications in the future. Once you develop periodontitis, the disease can be treated and controlled, but not cured completely. Fortunately, treatments for gum disease, combined with good oral hygiene and a healthy diet, can improve the health of the gums and successfully manage the disease.

What is SRP?

SRP stands for Scaling and Root Planing. It is a non- surgical gum and bone (periodontal) therapy that is recommended for people with gum disease.

What happens during the SRP appointment?

Your dental hygienist will give you anesthetic to make sure you are comfortably numb. The hygienist will then deep clean around the teeth and gums to remove plaque, bacteria and calculus (also known as tartar), that causes inflammation.

Are there any follow-up appointments?

Yes. After your SRP appointment(s) you will return to the office in 3 months for a follow-up. This appointment is called a periodontal maintenance. The hygienist will evaluate the tissue, take measurements of the gums to determine how the mouth is responding to treatment and clean the teeth. If any areas are not responding, they may deep clean those areas again. After the completion of SRP you will see the hygienist every 3 months for at least the first year and possibly after.

What is the point of SRP?

Deep cleanings are recommended when gum disease is present. Gum disease left untreated can spread, cause infections and cause teeth to eventually fall out. Our goal for all of our patients is to have healthy teeth and mouths.

Any other questions? Give us a call! 262 634-8662

To schedule an appointment with our dentists, request an appointment online or
call us at (262) 217-7764, and we will be happy to help!