What are the options for treatment for gum disease for Farmington Hills, MI area patients?

When periodontal disease strikes, patients in the Farmington Hills, MI area are encouraged to visit a quality dental team for appropriate treatment. This condition, also referred to as gum disease, is a serious and chronic condition that can negatively affect the health of the smile—and the body. Gum disease can cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream, also known as the oral systemic connection, which can increase the risk of many other problems within the body, including heart disease and increased risk of stroke. Patients must know the signs and symptoms of gum disease and the earliest stages to ensure they receive proper treatment as soon as possible for the best outcome.

Treatment for gum disease varies depending on the stage to which the disease has progressed. The initial stage, known as gingivitis, can be reversed. The characteristics seen in a patient with gingivitis include bleeding gums, inflammation, bad breath, and swelling of the gum tissue. Patients may notice bleeding when they brush and floss. This is the point when patients should seek treatment. This stage often requires a thorough professional cleaning with Dr. Richard Bernstein, DDS.

If patients do not seek treatment of gingivitis, the condition will continue to persist. It can become more troublesome and spread bacteria throughout the body. It can also cause long-term problems, including bone loss, tissue loss, and even the loss of natural teeth. It is essential that patients get this condition under control as soon as possible to ensure the protection of their smile. At the later stages of gum disease, patients may need a treatment called scaling and root planing. This is a more invasive procedure during which the dentist will clean all surfaces of the teeth and gums—including the roots of the teeth.

These procedures and treatments can be avoided by maintaining proper oral health care. Patients in Farmington Hills, MI who take good care of their smiles will enjoy the benefits of great oral health. Dr. Richard Bernstein, DDS is committed to helping educate his patients on the benefits of dental health and the risks involved with gum disease.