Do you have gum disease and are looking for a dentist in Mishawaka to help treat it? Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a prevalent oral health issue affecting millions worldwide. Left untreated, it can lead to severe complications, including tooth loss and even an increased risk of systemic health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Fortunately, regular dental care is crucial in preventing and treating gum disease. At Twin Branch Dental in Mishawaka, Dr. Mike Hewlett and Dr. Andrew Zaremba help patients maintain healthy gums and smile through comprehensive care and education.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease is a progressive condition that starts with gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums when you don’t adequately follow good oral hygiene practices. When you don’t remove plaque, it hardens into tartar or calculus, further irritating the gums.
In its early stages, gum disease may present with mild symptoms such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing. However, as the condition advances into periodontitis, the symptoms become more severe. This includes receding gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, and even bone loss in the jaw. Periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and other health complications without timely intervention.
Preventative Care at Twin Branch Dental
The best defense against gum disease is prevention, and this is where regular dental visits become invaluable. At Twin Branch Dental in Mishawaka, Dr. Mike Hewlett and Dr. Andrew Zaremba emphasize the importance of preventative care in maintaining healthy gums. They perform comprehensive oral examinations during routine dental check-ups to detect early gum disease signs. This allows them to intervene before the condition worsens.
One of the key preventative measures is professional teeth cleaning. Even with meticulous at-home oral hygiene, some plaque and tartar can still accumulate in hard-to-reach areas. The dental hygienists at Twin Branch Dental use specialized tools to remove these deposits, reducing the risk of gum inflammation and disease. They also provide personalized oral hygiene instructions, ensuring patients know the best techniques to keep their gums healthy between visits.
Early Detection and Treatment
Early intervention is crucial if we detect gum disease during a routine exam. Dr. Hewlett and Dr. Zaremba are skilled in identifying the subtle signs of gum disease that patients might overlook. Early-stage gum disease, or gingivitis, can often be reversed with improved oral hygiene and professional cleaning. However, if the disease has progressed to periodontitis, more intensive treatments may be necessary.
One standard treatment for periodontitis is scaling and root planing. This deep-cleaning procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smoothing the roots of the teeth to help the gums reattach. Antibiotic therapy may sometimes be used with scaling and root planing to eliminate bacterial infection.
For more advanced cases of gum disease, surgical intervention may be required. Twin Branch Dental offers a range of periodontal surgeries, including flap surgery and bone grafts, to restore the health of the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth.
The Role of Patient Education
Patient education is a critical component of gum disease prevention and treatment. Dr. Hewlett and Dr. Zaremba take the time to educate their patients about the causes and consequences of gum disease. They stress the importance of daily brushing and flossing, a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco use—all of which are vital for maintaining healthy gums.
Additionally, they discuss the impact of systemic health conditions on oral health. For example, patients with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease, so managing blood sugar levels is crucial for preventing complications. By educating patients on these connections, Dr. Hewlett and Dr. Zaremba empower them to take control of their oral and overall health.
Customized Treatment Plans
Every patient is unique, and so is their risk for gum disease. At Twin Branch Dental, our top dentists in Mishawaka, Dr. Hewlett and Dr. Zaremba, develop customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether it’s a more frequent schedule of cleanings, special periodontal treatments, or advice on improving home care routines, the team at Twin Branch Dental can provide personalized care that addresses the root causes of gum disease.
Top Dentist in Mishawaka
Gum disease is a serious condition that can affect your oral and overall health. However, with the expert care provided by Dr. Mike Hewlett and Dr. Andrew Zaremba at Twin Branch Dental in Mishawaka, you can protect your gums and keep your smile healthy. Regular dental visits, early detection, and personalized treatment help prevent and manage gum disease, ensuring their patients enjoy optimal oral health for years to come. Schedule an appointment today!
