Win the Battle Against Advanced Periodontitis in Boardman, OH
Advanced periodontitis is often called the “silent tooth killer” because it can cause significant damage before obvious symptoms appear. At Perrott Dentistry, our trusted Boardman, OH dentist, Dr. Robert Perrott has helped countless patients from Youngstown, Canfield, Poland, and Struthers reclaim their dental health after facing this serious condition. Left untreated, advanced periodontitis doesn’t just threaten your smile—it can impact your overall health.
If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or loosening teeth, it might be time to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. Don’t wait until the damage becomes irreversible; contact our Boardman dental office by calling (330) 726-0090.
What Is Advanced Periodontitis?
Advanced periodontitis represents the most severe stage of gum disease. What begins as simple gingivitis—characterized by minor inflammation and bleeding—can progress to this serious condition if left unchecked. At this advanced stage, the infection destroys the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth, creating pockets between your teeth and gums that become breeding grounds for bacteria.
The damage extends beyond your mouth: research has linked advanced periodontitis to heart disease, diabetes complications, respiratory issues, and even certain types of cancer. This connection, often called the “mouth-body connection,” underscores why Dr. Perrott takes such a comprehensive approach to treating this condition.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Your body often sends clear signals when advanced periodontitis is developing. Being aware of these warning signs can help you seek treatment before extensive damage occurs:
- Receding gums that make your teeth appear longer
- New spaces developing between teeth or teeth shifting position
- Persistent bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing
- Loose or shifting teeth that wobble when touched
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Pain when chewing or increased sensitivity
- Changes in how your teeth fit together when biting
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially in combination, contact Dr. Perrott’s office immediately by calling (330) 726-0090. Many Boardman and Youngstown area residents have preserved their natural teeth through prompt intervention.
Treatment Options at Perrott Dentistry
Dr. Robert Perrott offers several effective treatments for advanced periodontitis at his Boardman practice:
Scaling and Root Planing: This deep-cleaning procedure removes bacteria-filled plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths rough spots on tooth roots where bacteria tend to gather.
Antibiotic Therapy: Localized antibiotics placed directly in the periodontal pockets can help control bacterial infection and promote healing.
Surgical Interventions: For severe cases, Dr. Perrott may recommend flap surgery to clean deep periodontal pockets or bone and tissue grafts to regenerate lost bone or gum tissue.
Ongoing Maintenance: After initial treatment, regular professional cleanings and check-ups are essential to prevent recurrence.
The approach Dr. Perrott recommends will depend on the severity of your condition and your overall health profile. Many patients from Poland, Struthers, and surrounding communities have maintained their natural teeth for years after treatment through diligent follow-up care.
Preventing Advanced Periodontitis
To reduce the risk of advanced periodontitis, follow these essential preventive measures:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
- Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce harmful bacteria.
Schedule Regular Dental Visits
- Get professional dental cleanings and checkups at least twice a year.
- Seek early treatment for signs of gum disease, such as bleeding or swollen gums.
- Consider deep cleaning treatments like scaling and root planing if recommended by your dentist.
Adopt Healthy Lifestyle Habits
- Avoid tobacco use, as it increases the risk of gum disease.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support gum health.
- Manage underlying health conditions like diabetes that can contribute to periodontal disease.
- Stay hydrated and limit sugary foods and drinks to prevent plaque buildup.
Taking these steps can help protect your gums and prevent periodontitis from progressing to an advanced stage that may require surgical intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can advanced periodontitis be completely cured?
While the damage from advanced periodontitis cannot be fully reversed, the condition can be successfully managed with professional treatment and diligent home care. The dentist’s treatment plans aim to stop disease progression, repair damage where possible, and establish a maintenance program to prevent recurrence.
Does advanced periodontitis treatment hurt?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during scaling and root planing procedures thanks to local anesthesia. The dental team will prioritize patient comfort throughout all treatments. For surgical interventions, appropriate pain management options are always discussed beforehand.
How long does treatment for advanced periodontitis take?
Treatment timelines vary based on severity. Initial deep cleaning procedures typically require 2-4 appointments. Surgical interventions may add additional appointments, and ongoing maintenance will continue indefinitely, usually with visits every 3-4 months initially.
Is advanced periodontitis treatment covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for periodontal treatments. The dentist can verify your benefits and explain what portion of treatment may be your responsibility. They also offer payment plans to make necessary treatment accessible.
Take Action to Save Your Smile at Perrott Dentistry
Advanced periodontitis doesn’t have to mean the end of your natural smile. With proper intervention and care from Dr. Robert Perrott, many patients throughout the Boardman, Youngstown, Canfield, Poland, and Struthers areas have successfully halted disease progression and preserved their oral health.
Don’t wait until your teeth become loose or fall out—early intervention offers the best outcomes. Contact our top-rated dentist in Boardman, OH today by calling (330) 726-0090 to schedule a comprehensive periodontal evaluation. Your future self will thank you for taking this important step toward lasting oral health and overall wellness.