Dr. Randall Hestir, Dr. J. Doug Allen, Dr. John (Holt) Hestir or Dr. Catriona Oltmann will check your mouth for signs of gum disease during your routine dental exams. If you are diagnosed with this condition, our dentists will work with you to develop a periodontal treatment plan that will improve your oral health.
Periodontics is a branch of dentistry dedicated to the health and treatment of the gums and surrounding structures of the teeth. Periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease, is a progressive condition triggered by the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that adheres to teeth. If not adequately removed, plaque hardens into tartar, exacerbating gum irritation and leading to an inflammatory response in the gum tissues. There are a variety of treatments which our dentists may recommend to help fight this disease, including:
The initial stage of periodontal disease, known as gingivitis, manifests through symptoms such as redness, swelling, tenderness and bleeding of the gums. Fortunately, gingivitis can be effectively treated and reversed with prompt professional intervention and rigorous oral hygiene practices. However, if left unaddressed, gingivitis may advance to periodontitis. This severe stage of gum disease is characterized by the degradation of gum tissue, bone loss and, ultimately, tooth loss. Treatment for periodontitis is more complex and may involve regular deep cleanings, medication and, in some cases, surgical interventions to halt the progression of the disease and restore oral health.
For more information about periodontics in DeWitt and Stuttgart, Arkansas, and to schedule your consultation with our experienced dentists, please contact our office today.