Periodontal Disease Treatment in Arlington, VA

A widespread condition, three out of every four people have a form of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. Given the broad population that is affected, our belief at Crystal City Dental Care is that thorough evaluation of each patient’s dental health allows us to provide comprehensive treatment. This is why Arlington dentist, Dr. Flavio Nasr, bases treatment plans on the type and severity of disease to provide patients with an appropriate level of care.

Why Get Treatment for Periodontal Disease?

Plaque, a bacterial film that forms on the teeth, is the cause of gum disease. Without treatment, this film hardens into tartar on the surface while also travelling below the gum line, leading to inflammation of the gums and creating deeper spaces between the teeth and gums where further infection can develop. At this point, the spread of bacteria has substantially impacted the underlying connections that hold teeth in place. This may leave patients with loose teeth and diminished facial structure as advanced disease causes loss of supporting bone and recession of gum tissue.

When gum disease is detected early, Dr. Nasr can recommend a wider variety of less invasive treatment options. 

Non-Surgical Treatment for Periodontal Disease

During the earliest stage of gum disease, professional cleanings coupled with more intensive at-home dental care are effective means of clearing gingivitis. Patients to our Arlington dental practice will receive advice on improving their daily home care routine to protect their smiles from the return of disease.

If disease has progressed to periodontitis, deep cleaning is often recommended. More comprehensive than standard cleanings, deep cleaning consists of dental scaling and root planing. Dental scaling involves removing plaque, tartar, and other irritants both from the surface of the teeth as well as below the gum line. To reduce the pocket depth and encourage proper healing, the tooth roots will be smoothed through the process of root planing. Typically, these areas are numbed while the procedure takes place to ensure patient comfort.

To further control infection and promote recovery, Dr. Nasr may also recommend medications that treat gum inflammation as well as medicated oral rinses. 

Surgical Treatment for Periodontal Disease

Significantly advanced periodontal disease may require surgical intervention to treat. Surgery may also be necessary when disease does not respond to deep cleaning or other non-surgical options. Under these circumstances, Dr. Nasr may recommend consulting a periodontist. This gum and jaw bone specialist can perform periodontal surgeries that both eliminate disease and promote the rehabilitation of damaged connective tissue. 

Contact Us.

A consultation visit at our Arlington dental office can be the first step to regaining a strong, healthy smile. If you are ready to learn more about treatment options for periodontal disease, contact Crystal City Dental Care today.

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