Gum Disease Treatment in Katy, TX

Maintaining a healthy smile goes beyond brushing and flossing regularly. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the most common oral health issues that can silently progress if not properly treated. If you’ve been experiencing symptoms like swollen gums, bleeding during brushing, or persistent bad breath, you might be dealing with the early stages of gum disease. But the good news is that it’s treatable, especially when detected early.

At Katy Lakes Dentistry, we offer comprehensive gum disease treatment to help you restore your oral health and prevent further complications. Whether you’re in the early stages of gingivitis or experiencing more advanced periodontitis, our team is equipped to provide the care you need. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about gum disease, the treatments available, and how our team can help you get back on track to a healthier smile.

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It’s typically caused by the buildup of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth when you eat or drink. If plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist. The bacteria in plaque and tartar irritate your gums, causing inflammation and infection.

There are two main stages of gum disease:

1. Gingivitis (Early Stage)

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease and is often characterized by red, swollen, or bleeding gums. At this stage, the condition is reversible with proper dental care, including professional cleanings and improved oral hygiene practices. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis.

2. Periodontitis (Advanced Stage)

Periodontitis is a more serious form of gum disease in which the infection spreads below the gumline, damaging the bone and tissues that support your teeth. As the disease progresses, the gums may begin to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets where bacteria can accumulate. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and other health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes.

Gum disease is often painless in its early stages, which is why many people don’t realize they have it. However, there are several warning signs you should be aware of:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
• Receding gums or gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule a consultation with Katy Lakes Dentistry for a thorough evaluation. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing the progression of gum disease.

At Katy Lakes Dentistry, we offer a variety of treatment options for gum disease, depending on the severity of the condition. Our goal is to help you regain your oral health by eliminating infection, reducing gum inflammation, and preserving your natural teeth. Here’s an overview of the treatments we provide:

1. Professional Cleanings

If you have gingivitis, a professional cleaning may be all you need to reverse the early signs of gum disease. During this procedure, our dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline. We’ll also provide guidance on improving your at-home oral care routine to prevent gum disease from returning.

2. Scaling and Root Planing

For patients with more advanced gum disease, scaling and root planing—often referred to as a deep cleaning—may be necessary. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline, while root planing smooths the tooth roots to make it more difficult for bacteria to reattach. This treatment helps reduce gum pocket depth and allows the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth.

3. Antibiotic Therapy

In some cases, we may recommend using antibiotics to help eliminate the bacteria that cause gum disease. Antibiotics can be applied directly to the gum pockets or taken orally to reduce infection and promote healing. This treatment is often used in conjunction with scaling and root planing for more effective results.

4. Laser Gum Treatment

At Katy Lakes Dentistry, we also offer laser gum treatment, a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser technology to remove infected gum tissue and bacteria. This treatment is less painful than traditional gum surgery and has a faster recovery time. Laser gum treatment can be an excellent option for patients with moderate to severe gum disease.

5. Pocket Reduction Surgery

For patients with deep gum pockets that don’t respond to non-surgical treatments, we may recommend pocket reduction surgery. During this procedure, the gum tissue is folded back, and the bacteria and infected tissue are removed. The gum tissue is then secured back in place, reducing the depth of the pockets and making it easier to maintain healthy gums in the future.

6. Gum Grafting

If gum recession has occurred due to advanced gum disease, gum grafting may be recommended. This procedure involves taking tissue from another part of your mouth or using donor tissue to cover the exposed roots of your teeth. Gum grafting helps protect the teeth from further damage and improves the appearance of your smile.

7. Periodontal Maintenance

Once your gum disease is under control, regular periodontal maintenance visits are essential to prevent the disease from returning. These visits involve deep cleanings and monitoring the health of your gums. We typically recommend periodontal maintenance every three to four months for patients with a history of gum disease.