Process of periodontal disease treatment, including scaling and root planing, with Charleston, SC area dentist
Dr. Andrew Greenberg is a dedicated dental professional in Charleston, SC who understands how important it is to care for the smile and to address problems such as periodontal disease. Patients in the area who are diagnosed with the condition will want to seek treatment, and this may include services such as scaling and root planing. Our team will walk patients through the process of diagnosing, treating, and preventing this and other dental concerns.
Understanding periodontal disease
Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA and its team describe periodontal disease, or “gum disease,” as an infection that can negatively impact the oral cavity. Dr. Andrew Greenberg finds that without proper prevention, patients can develop this condition and will experience its effects for many years. Our professionals encourage patients to take care of their smile every day to reduce their chances of developing periodontal disease in the first place and enjoy a healthy smile for the rest of their lives!
Prevention
It is generally simple for patients to prevent the development of periodontal disease. It is essential that patients take a proactive approach to their oral health and wellness to keep this and other problems from developing. This includes cavities, which can cause damage to the natural tooth structure and result in the need for fillings, root canal therapy, or even extraction of a tooth that has been damaged beyond repair. Preventing gum disease is simple with proper oral health care habits. This includes brushing the teeth after every meal and flossing at least once a day to remove food particles from between the teeth. Additionally, patients should visit Dr. Andrew Greenberg at Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA every six months for a cleaning and evaluation. This allows our professionals to observe patients’ oral health and act quickly if signs of disease are spotted.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of periodontal disease is often done with a physical evaluation of the smile. The dentist may note some of the following characteristics of the smile that can indicate signs of infection:
- Red, swollen gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Bone loss (detected via x-ray)
- Pockets between gum tissue and natural teeth
- Loose teeth
One a patient has been diagnosed with periodontal disease, as well as the stage at which it has been reached, treatment options are discussed.
Treatment
Treatment for periodontal disease varies depending on the severity and the stage. The early stage, known as gingivitis, is reversible with a thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums and improved home oral hygiene. Patients will relax in the dental chair as the hygienist removes and plaque and tartar that contribute to the condition and bring the smile back to health. Patients are educated on how to care for their teeth to maintain oral health. If the condition has reached the later stages, the need for treatment is increased. The infection needs to be controlled, and this can be done with the application of antibiotics or a prescription oral medication. Additionally, the dentist may perform a procedure known as scaling and root planing, which cleans both the visible portions of the tooth (the crowns) and the roots during a more invasive procedure. However, once this has been done, the condition can be controlled effectively with our team of professionals. Patients who have been diagnosed with periodontal disease and are currently undergoing the process of treatment will need to see the dentist on a more regular basis, typically every three months instead of every six, until the condition has been controlled. While periodontal disease is a condition in which a cure is not available, it can be improved and maintained with the help of a dental professional.
Learn more about periodontal disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention
The team at Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA in Charleston, SC provides many treatment options for patients in and around the area and welcomes patients to the practice for comprehensive dental care. Dr. Andrew Greenberg’s practice is in Suite 302 at 3 Gamecock Avenue and can be reached to schedule an appointment by calling (843)751 4262. New patients are welcome to request a visit with our team.
Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA - Dr. Andrew Greenberg
Dr. Andrew Greenberg completed his Bachelor’s Degree in New Orleans, Louisiana at Tulane University. He graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina College of Dental Medicine in 2009, where he portrayed excellent academic performance. He exercises his academic brilliance to the benefit of his patients every day. He grew up in a family with a dental background and showed interest in the field since his early days.
