Dentist in Bryan College Station

Gum or periodontal disease is a common but serious condition affecting the gums and the bones supporting the teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other health complications. However, with the help of a skilled dentist, gum disease can be prevented and treated effectively. At Thornton Dental, Dr. Iman Rahimi Thornton, the top dentist in Bryan College Station, helps patients maintain healthy gums and oral health through comprehensive preventive care and advanced treatment options.

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease typically starts with gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums caused by the accumulation of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—on the teeth. Common symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. If you don’t address gingivitis, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can damage the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. This disease can eventually lead to tooth loss.

Periodontitis has also been linked to other health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory conditions. Therefore, preventing and treating gum disease is crucial for maintaining oral health and overall well-being.

The Preventive Role of a Dentist in Bryan College Station

Prevention is the first defense against gum disease; regular dental visits are critical. At Thornton Dental in Bryan College Station, Dr. Iman Rahimi Thornton emphasizes the importance of routine dental check-ups and cleanings as part of a comprehensive preventive care plan.

Professional Cleanings: Even with diligent brushing and flossing, plaque can still accumulate in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. During a professional cleaning, Dr. Thornton’s skilled hygienists remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from the teeth, particularly along the gumline, where gum disease often begins. These cleanings help to prevent the development of gingivitis and stop it from progressing to periodontitis.
Thorough Examinations: During your routine dental visits, Dr. Thornton will thoroughly examine your gums to check for signs of gum disease. Early detection is crucial in preventing more serious issues. If any signs of gingivitis are detected, Dr. Thornton will recommend the appropriate preventive measures to stop the progression of the disease.
Personalized Oral Hygiene Advice: Education is an integral part of prevention. Dr. Thornton and her team provide patients with personalized oral hygiene instructions, including proper brushing and flossing techniques, and advice on diet and lifestyle factors affecting gum health.

Treating Gum Disease

If gum disease has already developed, seeking treatment as soon as possible is essential to prevent further damage. Thornton Dental offers a range of treatment options for patients at different stages of gum disease, ensuring that each patient receives the care they need.

Scaling and Root Planing: For patients with early to moderate gum disease, Dr. Thornton may recommend scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. This treatment also smooths the roots of the teeth, making it more difficult for bacteria to adhere to them in the future.
Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, antibiotic therapy may be used alongside scaling and root planing to reduce bacterial infection and inflammation in the gums. Dr. Thornton will determine the most appropriate antibiotic treatment based on the severity of the gum disease.
Surgical Options: For more advanced cases of periodontitis, surgical intervention may be necessary. Thornton Dental provides advanced periodontal surgeries, such as flap surgery, which involves lifting the gums to remove tartar and then suturing them back in place. We may also use bone grafts and soft tissue grafts to repair the damage caused by periodontitis and restore the stability of the teeth.
Ongoing Maintenance: After treatment, maintaining gum health is crucial to prevent the recurrence of gum disease. Dr. Thornton will create a personalized maintenance plan that includes more frequent dental visits for cleanings and check-ups and continued oral hygiene education.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Early intervention is one of the most significant aspects of preventing and treating gum disease. Gum disease can progress silently, often without noticeable symptoms until it has reached an advanced stage. This is why regular dental visits are so important—they allow Dr. Thornton to detect and address any issues before they become severe.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or loose teeth, it’s important to seek dental care as soon as possible. The sooner we identify and treat gum disease, the better the chances of preventing tooth loss and other complications.