Being told you have periodontal (gum) disease can feel alarming. It doesn’t have to. Understanding the particulars of your case and treatment options can make a big difference in approaching your care properly.
The good news is periodontal disease in Colorado Springs, CO, can often be managed effectively. Its earliest stage, gingivitis, can even typically be reversed. And while more advanced gum disease involving bone loss can’t be fully cured, it can be controlled with ongoing treatment.
The Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease
Gum disease exists on a spectrum. Where your case falls on that spectrum can significantly impact treatment. Gingivitis (early gum disease) involves inflammation and irritation of the gum tissue, but no damage to the bone or supporting structures. With proper treatment and improved oral hygiene, gingivitis is usually reversible.
Why Advanced Periodontal Disease Can't Be Fully Cured
Once gum disease progresses into periodontitis, the infection has often caused some degree of bone and tissue loss around the teeth. This damage doesn't fully reverse, even with treatment. The goal with periodontitis is control, not cure.
What Periodontal Treatment Can Achieve
Your dentist can help manage gum disease with periodontal treatment. Deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing remove bacteria and tartar from below the gumline so inflamed tissue can heal. While this doesn't regenerate lost bone, it can stop the disease's progress and improve gum health.
Why Ongoing Maintenance Matters
Because periodontal disease can't be permanently cured once it's progressed, ongoing maintenance is essential to keeping it under control. The best way to know where your gum health currently stands, and what treatment can realistically achieve, is a full periodontal evaluation.
This is why Springs Family Dental in Fort Collins offers a periodontal membership plan, giving patients access to multiple periodontal maintenance cleanings each year, along with exams and x-rays.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease in Colorado Springs, CO
If you've been diagnosed with gum disease or are noticing early warning signs, contact Dr. Michael Terveen and the attentive, thorough Springs Family Dental team to schedule an evaluation.