Periodontal Disease Treatment in Vienna, VA

If you have noticed a change in your gums lately, you may be dealing with periodontal disease. Gums that look swollen or irritated, feel tender, or bleed when you brush are all common signs of a gum infection.

At Vienna Family Dental and Facial Esthetics, we take your overall well-being very seriously because we don’t just treat teeth – we treat people. We take our time to understand your concerns and goals because your oral health needs are as unique as you are.

How Gum Disease Develops

When bacteria-filled plaque and tartar are allowed to build up on the teeth and beneath the gum line, a gum infection called gingivitis can occur. Your body’s immune system tries to fight the infection, and you will notice that your gums look red or puffy, feel tender when touched, or bleed when you brush.

If the infection is not detected and treated promptly, the gums gradually pull away from teeth and open up spaces called periodontal pockets. Bacteria continue to thrive and grow in this environment and, if not removed, can cause the infection to grow and spread, attacking the bones and supporting structures of your teeth. This stage of gum disease is called periodontitis.

How We Treat Gum Disease

If you haven't been proactive with your dental care and are now facing problems as a result, please don’t put off an appointment because you don’t want to hear a lecture.

Everyone is at different stages with their oral health, and there’s nothing to be gained by us judging you or shaming you for past habits. We will meet you right where you are and provide the tools and education you need to move your oral health in the right direction.

In the case of gingivitis, all that’s usually needed is a thorough dental cleaning and improved oral hygiene. Your hygienist will talk to you about proper brushing and flossing techniques and any lifestyle habits, like smoking, that may be affecting your gum health.

If you have advanced gum disease, we will recommend a procedure called a deep cleaning with one of our experienced dental hygienists. During this process, we clear away bacteria-filled plaque and tartar from your teeth to provide a smooth surface for your gums to reattach to the teeth. All of our hygienists have been with us for at least ten years, so you know you're in excellent hands!

Our goal is to ensure that you always receive the highest standard of care, regardless of what procedure you have. In the case of advanced gum disease, we may recommend the services of Dr. Georges Traboulsi, our in-house periodontist.

Gum surgery used to be something to dread, but Dr. Traboulsi is trained to use state-of-the-art dental lasers to perform a comfortable procedure with no injections, no downtime, faster recovery, and better long-term results.

Why Gum Disease Is a Problem 

Healthy gums are essential if you want to enjoy the benefits of a problem-free smile.

But beyond oral health, numerous studies and research in recent years have also found a connection between the condition of your gums and your general health. Chronic gum infections can contribute to complications of heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and much more.

Please Call to Arrange an Appointment

The good news is that gum disease is highly preventable; with a conscientious oral hygiene routine and semi-annual visits for exams and cleanings, it is unlikely that you will have to worry about gum disease.

At Vienna Family Dental and Facial Esthetics, our goal is to help you achieve a healthy, problem-free smile. Please call us so we can help you get started!