
Jun
Every dentist works hard with Lakewood, CO area patients on reducing the risk and development of conditions such as tooth decay and gum disease. Gum disease is a serious condition that can wreak havoc on an otherwise beautiful, healthy smile and must be diagnosed and treated promptly for the best success.
Gum disease, often referred to by Dr. Scott Stewart as periodontal disease, is the inflammation and infection of the mouth. It may be caused by bacteria, plaque, and tartar. The causes of gum disease are often avoidable with proper dental health regimens developed by a dental team that cares about the health and beauty of patient smiles. Dr. Scott Stewart of South Lakewood Dental can assist patients in professional cleanings, scaling and root planing, and other procedures to maintain the smile in a healthy manner.
If there is a suspicion of gum disease developing, patients must see Dr. Scott Stewart as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. The earlier stages are characterized by bleeding of the gums during brushing and flossing, redness of the gum tissue, and inflammation. This is the first stage of gum disease known as gingivitis, which is completely reversible with immediate care. Dr. Scott Stewart can perform a thorough cleaning of the surfaces of the gum tissue and teeth to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria, which may be causing to the development of gingivitis.
If gingivitis occurs and it is not treated, it can continue to cause serious, irreversible problems for patients as it progresses into the later stages of periodontitis. Periodontitis is characterized by the pulling away of the gum tissue from the teeth, the loss of bone, and even the loosening or loss of natural teeth. Once the condition has reached this stage, it is no longer curable but can be controlled with treatment and regular dental care. Dr. Scott Stewart will need to perform scaling and root planing and may recommend antibiotics to address the problem and help bring the smile back to health.