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Periodontal Disease Treatment

Cosmetic Dentistry & Family Dentistry in Charelston, SC

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Periodontal Disease Treatment services offered in Charelston, SC


Gum recession, bad breath, and tender gums are telltale signs of periodontal disease. At Hudgens Dental in Charleston, South Carolina, board-certified cosmetic dentist Roy Hudgens, DMD, can effectively diagnose and treat periodontal disease at all stages, whether you have early gingivitis or late-stage periodontitis. Call the office or schedule an appointment online to learn more about periodontal disease treatment.

Periodontal Disease Treatment Q&A

What is periodontal disease treatment?

Periodontal disease is a gum infection that damages the tissues that support your teeth. Also called gum disease, this infection occurs when plaque (a sticky form of bacteria) and tartar (hardened plaque) build along the gumline. The gums are responsible for holding your teeth in place. Without healthy gums, your teeth may loosen and even fall out. 

Periodontal disease treatment can address infected gums before they cause irreversible damage. Dr. Hudgens offers several effective treatments at Hudgens Dental to preserve your gum health.

What are the signs that I need periodontal disease treatment?

Signs you may need periodontal treatment include:

  • Red, tender gums
  • Gum recession
  • Halitosis (bad breath)
  • Loose teeth
  • Pain when chewing
  • Tooth loss
  • Bleeding gums
  • Malocclusions (bite changes)

If you have advanced periodontal disease, visible pockets of pus may form between your gumline and teeth.

What are the different types of periodontal disease?

Dr. Hudgens addresses all forms of periodontal disease, including:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is an early form of periodontal disease and the only reversible type. In this stage, your teeth are still firmly intact, though the gums may be red and tender.

Mild periodontal disease

Mild periodontal disease develops when bacteria reach the underlying jawbone. While the condition is no longer reversible at this stage, it is treatable.

Moderate periodontal disease

Moderate periodontal disease causes bacteria to travel beneath the gumline, through the underlying bone, and into the bloodstream.

Severe periodontal disease

Also called periodontitis, severe periodontal disease is an advanced infection. Your gums may ooze pus and chewing can be painful and difficult.

What kinds of periodontal disease treatment are available?

Hudgens Dental offers multiple types of periodontal disease treatment, including:

Scaling and root planing

Scaling and root planing is a minimally invasive treatment that removes pockets of plaque from beneath the gumline. Dr. Hudgens uses laser dentistry to ensure the treatment is comfortable and offers a fast recovery.

Oral surgery

If periodontal disease erodes your tooth-supporting tissues, Dr. Hudgens may recommend a gum graft. This procedure involves taking tissue from one area of your mouth and placing it over your receding gums.

Call Hudgens Dental or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about periodontal disease treatment.