Periodontics
Periodontal Disease Treatment in Largo, FL
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and it often does its damage quietly, with little pain until real harm is done. At Pinellas Dental Specialties in Largo, we focus on catching it early, treating it effectively, and protecting the smile you already have.
The condition
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It begins as gingivitis, a mild inflammation of the gums, and, left untreated, progresses to periodontitis — a more severe form that breaks down the bone supporting your teeth and can ultimately lead to tooth loss.
Why it matters
Why Periodontal Disease Is the Leading Cause of Tooth Loss
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Progressive Nature
The disease starts as mild inflammation and, if not addressed, advances to affect deeper structures, breaking down the bone and gum tissue that support your teeth.
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Destruction of Supporting Structures
As it progresses, periodontal disease destroys the bone and gum tissue that keep your teeth anchored in place, leading to tooth mobility and eventual loss.
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Often Painless
Periodontal disease can develop silently, with minimal or no pain in its early stages — many patients don’t realize they have it until significant damage has occurred.
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Increased Risk of Complications
Left untreated, it can lead to abscesses, severe gum recession and tooth loss, and has been linked to systemic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Recognizing the early symptoms of periodontal disease is key to preventing tooth loss. Common signs include:
- Red, swollen or bleeding gums: Especially when brushing or flossing.
- Persistent bad breath: Caused by bacteria and infection below the gum line.
- Receding gums: Gums that pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth or its roots.
- Loose or shifting teeth: Teeth that become loose or start shifting position.
- Changes in your bite: Difficulty chewing or a change in how your teeth fit together.
Our approach
How We Can Help
At Pinellas Dental Specialties, we take a proactive approach to managing and treating periodontal disease.
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Comprehensive Evaluations
We conduct thorough examinations to assess the health of your gums and identify any signs of periodontal disease.
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Personalized Treatment Plans
Based on your condition, we develop customized plans that may include scaling and root planing, regenerative therapy, and more.
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Patient Education
We provide detailed guidance on maintaining optimal oral hygiene and preventing periodontal disease, so you can take charge of your own dental health.
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Ongoing Monitoring
Regular check-ups and cleanings are essential for managing periodontal health and preventing the disease from returning.
Day to day
Prevention and Maintenance
Preventing periodontal disease starts with excellent oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. Simple daily practices go a long way:
- Brush twice daily: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush.
- Floss daily: To remove plaque between your teeth and under the gum line.
- Keep regular dental visits: To monitor your periodontal health and address issues before they become severe.
Already diagnosed with gum disease? Learn more about our scaling and root planing and regenerative periodontal therapy — or meet the periodontists who provide it.
Have questions?
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis is the early, mild stage of gum disease — inflammation of the gums that is usually reversible with professional cleaning and better home care. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced stage that damages the bone and tissue supporting your teeth and cannot be fully reversed, only managed.
Gingivitis, the earliest stage, is generally reversible. Once the disease progresses to periodontitis and bone loss has occurred, treatment focuses on stopping further damage and, where possible, regenerating lost tissue and bone rather than reversing the disease entirely.
Most periodontal treatment, including scaling and root planing, is performed with a local anesthetic so the area is numb during the procedure. Some tenderness afterward is normal and typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Most patients benefit from an evaluation at every routine dental visit. If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease or have risk factors such as smoking or diabetes, we may recommend more frequent monitoring to keep it from progressing.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
If you’re experiencing symptoms of periodontal disease or have concerns about your gum health, contact us today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation in Largo.
or call us at 727-531-5100