General Family Dentistry in Des Moines, IA

Personalized & Comfortable Lifelong Dental Care

Periodontal Treatment in Des Moines & Urbandale, IA

Healthy gums are an essential part of a healthy mouth. Unfortunately nearly half of American adults over the age of 30 have some form of gum (periodontal) disease. Gum disease is sneaky, as it sometimes advances “silently,” without causing noticeable symptoms. Left untreated and undetected, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other devastating complications.

With the help of Dr. Chris McDonald, you can enjoy healthy, clean gums for life. Dr. McDonald is trained to look for signs of periodontal disease as early as possible, so he can treat it before it becomes a bigger problem. Early detection offers the best chances for rehabilitation with minimally invasive treatment.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues holding the teeth in place. The most common cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. If you do not routine brush or floss your teeth, a sticky film of bacteria called plaque can build up, creating toxins that damage your gum tissue. Other factors, such as genetics, tobacco use and diabetes can increase the risk of developing gum disease.

Types of Gum Disease

There are two stages of gum disease. The early stage is called gingivitis, and the advanced stage is called periodontitis. As gum disease advances, the inflammation from the infection can cause “pockets,” or spaces, to form around the teeth. Bacteria and plaque like to hide in these pockets.

Symptoms

Although it is possible for gum disease to advance without pain or symptoms, warning signs of gum disease include the following:

  • Red, swollen or tender gums
  • Receding gums or gums that appear to pull away from your teeth
  • Bleeding gums
  • Pus in between the gums and teeth
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Changes in the way your teeth fit together when biting down
  • Loose teeth

Treatments for Periodontal Disease

Stages of Periodontal Disease

If you have gum disease, Dr. McDonald has a solution for you, no matter what stage the disease is at, or how serious it is. He will create a unique treatment plan to help restore your gums to excellent health.

Scaling and Root Planing

Most cases of gingivitis can be reversed with excellent oral hygiene and deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing. During deep cleanings, Dr. McDonald and our team carefully remove plaque and hardened plaque from the tooth roots below the surface of the gums. We also smooth the tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to accumulate there in the future. Sometimes Dr. McDonald recommends antibiotics if he believes the medicine could help.

Periodontal Pocket Reduction and Bone Grafting

Cases that have progressed to periodontitis require more extensive treatment. Dr. McDonald may perform periodontal pocket reduction to clean out deep pockets that form around the teeth, or he may use a soft tissue laser to remove damaged gum tissue. Very advanced cases may require gum or bone grafting to rehabilitate the structures holding the teeth in place.

Preventing Gum Disease

Prevention is an important part of the conversation about gum disease. Preventing gum disease before it starts can help you avoid future pain, discomfort and time-consuming, extensive treatment.

Dr. McDonald and our team routinely check for signs of gum disease during every exam. We can advise you of at-home oral hygiene habits to practice to thoroughly remove bacteria and food debris trapped between your teeth and along your gumline. We can also educate you about whether your age, health history or lifestyle put you at an increased risk of gum disease; if so, we will share strategies to mitigate that risk.

CORRECT BRUSHING AND FLOSSING METHODS

For many people, dental hygiene is just a regular part of their day and not much thought goes into the specifics of brushing and flossing. However, there is a correct way to brush and floss to get the maximum effect. Dr. McDonald can provide you with information about proper brushing techniques; in the meantime, consider the following tips for oral health:

Brush twice daily: You should be brushing twice a day to help your teeth stay as clean as possible. Skipping a brushing session could allow plaque to build up faster, which can lead to cavities and tooth loss if this plaque is not removed.

Replace your toothbrush: Toothbrushes become less effective as the bristles fray. Consider replacing your brush every three months, or sooner if your toothbrush begins losing bristles. Doing so will ensure your toothbrush can thoroughly clean your teeth.

Use ADA-accepted products: The ADA accepts products that demonstrate a significant benefit to individuals. Make sure you are using products, such as floss, that have the ADA seal.

Brush and floss gently: Harsh brushing and flossing can damage the gums and be counterproductive to maintaining your oral health; a quality toothbrush and proper brushing technique will be able to effectively remove plaque without causing damage or bleeding.

Tilt and angle the brush: Brushing techniques start with knowing how to position the toothbrush for maximum results. It is recommended to hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums before gently moving the toothbrush in short, intentional strokes.

For more information about periodontal care, please call McDonald Family Dentistry or send us an email.

Why Choose McDonald Family Dentistry

  • Long history of serving the community’s dental care needs
  • Convenient office location
  • Wide range of services to meet every patient’s goals
  • High-tech, state-of-the-art technology
  • Competitive fees

A Down-To-Earth
Family Practice

Under the leadership of Dr. McDonald, our entire team goes above and beyond to create an environment that is down to earth and relaxed. Thanks to our office’s beautiful natural surroundings and friendly, laid-back atmosphere, even the most anxious patients report feeling comfortable. Come see the difference for yourself!