Gum Disease Treatment Delaware, Ohio

Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems among adults. It can lead to serious damage if left untreated. At the office of Eric Batterton, DDS, we focus on identifying gum disease early and offering straightforward solutions. If you’re looking for gum disease treatment in Delaware, Ohio, understanding your condition and your options is the first step.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, starts with inflammation at the gum line. It is often caused by plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If not removed through brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar. Once tartar forms, it cannot be removed at home and must be cleaned by a dentist.

The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. At this stage, symptoms include red, swollen, or bleeding gums. Gingivitis is reversible with proper care. If ignored, it can advance to periodontitis. This stage can cause gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss.

Early Signs to Watch For

Many people do not feel pain in the early stages of gum disease. Still, there are signs to be aware of:

  • Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing 
  • Persistent bad breath 
  • Swollen or tender gums 
  • Receding gum line 
  • Sensitive or loose teeth

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to see a Delaware dentist.

Your gums play a key role in your overall oral health. Healthy gums support your teeth and act as a barrier against infection. When gum issues go untreated, they can affect more than your mouth. Research shows a link between periodontal disease and conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

Good oral hygiene and regular periodontal maintenance helps prevent gum issues. This means brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups. 

In Delaware, Dr. Eric Batterton offers thorough exams to spot gum disease early.

Treatment depends on how far the disease has progressed:

  • Professional Cleaning: In early-stage gingivitis, a professional cleaning may be enough to remove tartar and stop the disease. 
  • Scaling and Root Planing: This deeper cleaning removes tartar from below the gum line and smooths roots to help gums reattach. 
  • Ongoing Care: Patients with gum disease may need more frequent cleanings to manage the condition. 
  • Surgery: In severe cases, procedures like flap surgery or grafts may be necessary.

Dr. Batterton takes a measured approach. He recommends only the treatment options that suit your condition. His focus is on keeping your oral health stable and your gums healthy long-term.

Getting gum disease treatment in Delaware, Ohio, means finding a dentist you can trust. 

Dr. Batterton has years of experience in general dentistry and focuses on early detection and prevention. His office uses proven tools and techniques to treat and manage disease without overcomplicating the process.

Seeing a local provider also makes it easier to keep up with your appointments. Gum disease is a chronic condition. Having a nearby dentist helps you stay consistent with care.

You can take steps at home to support your gum health:

  • Brush with a soft-bristle toothbrush twice a day.
  • Floss daily to clean between the teeth.
  • Avoid smoking, which increases the risk of periodontal disease.
  • Replace your toothbrush every three months.

Visit your dentist at least twice a year.

Schedule a Visit

Ignoring signs of gum disease only gives the problem time to grow. If you’re seeing changes in your gums or have a history of tartar buildup, don’t wait. Dr. Batterton provides gum disease treatment in Delaware, Ohio, in a setting focused on patient comfort and clear communication.

Contact our office to schedule an exam. We’ll help you get your oral health back on track.

The symptoms of gum disease can be subtle and may not be noticeable until the disease has advanced. Some common signs of gum disease include:

  • Swollen, red, or tender gums
  • Bleeding while brushing or flossing
  • Receding gums, which can make teeth appear longer than normal
  • Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
  • Loose or shifting teeth

If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with a dental professional to have the signs treated promptly.

Prevention is critical for gum disease, and the best way to prevent it is through good oral hygiene practices, regular dental check-ups, and a healthy diet. Some steps you can take to prevent gum disease include:

  • Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
  • Flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gumline.
  • Using an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen breath.
  • Eating a healthy diet –– low in sugar and processed foods.
  • Quitting smoking and avoiding other forms of tobacco.
  • Scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings.

Gum disease has been linked to several serious health problems, including:

  • Tooth loss
  • Tooth decay
  • Bone loss and jawbone recession
  • Increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems
  • Increased risk of certain types of cancer
  • Increased risk of premature birth and low birth weight in pregnant women

In addition to these health risks, gum disease can also be painful and cause significant discomfort and embarrassment, such as bad breath and loose or missing teeth.

The cost of gum disease treatment can vary depending on the extent and severity of the disease, as well as the specific treatment plan recommended by your dentist. Treatment for gum disease may be covered by dental insurance, but the extent of coverage can vary depending on the policy.

Some common treatments for gum disease, such as scaling and root planing, may be covered in full or partly by insurance. However, more advanced treatments, such as surgery to regenerate lost gum tissue, may not be covered or may only be covered to a certain extent.

Speak with your dentist and insurance provider to determine the cost of gum disease.