Gum Disease Treatment In Stone Ridge, VA

Gum Disease

At Prime Family Dentistry, we understand that healthy gums are the foundation of a beautiful smile and overall oral health. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious condition that, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss and other complications. If you’re searching for effective gum disease treatment in Stone Ridge, VA, our skilled team is ready to help restore your gum health and protect your smile.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease occurs when harmful bacteria in plaque and tartar infect and damage the gums and surrounding tissues. While poor oral hygiene is a primary cause, other factors can contribute to the development of gum disease:

Common Causes of Gum Disease

Inadequate Oral Care: Irregular brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up along the gumline.
Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco reduces your ability to fight off gum infections.
Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and other hormonal fluctuations can make gums more sensitive.
Genetics: A family history of gum disease increases susceptibility.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Poor diets, especially those lacking vitamin C, can weaken gum health.
Certain Medications: Drugs that reduce saliva flow can increase the risk of gum infections.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Identifying gum disease early is critical to preventing long-term damage. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s time to seek professional care:

Red, swollen, or tender gums
Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
Gum recession, making teeth look longer
Loose or shifting teeth
Pain or discomfort when chewing

Don’t ignore these signs—early treatment can make a big difference in your oral health.

Stages of Gum Disease

Gum disease progresses in stages, each requiring a different approach to treatment. At Prime Family Dentistry, we tailor our care based on the severity of your condition.

Gingivitis (Early Stage)

Gingivitis is the first and most common stage of gum disease. At this stage, the gums may appear red, swollen, and prone to bleeding, especially during brushing. The good news? Gingivitis is reversible with professional cleanings and improved oral hygiene habits.

Periodontitis (Moderate Stage)

When gingivitis is untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. This stage involves deeper infection, gum recession, and damage to the bone and tissue supporting your teeth. With treatments like scaling and root planing, we can stop the progression and restore gum health.

Advanced Periodontitis (Severe Stage)

In advanced periodontitis, the infection causes significant damage to the gums, bone, and connective tissue, potentially leading to tooth loss. Surgical interventions or laser therapy may be required to repair the damage and prevent further complications.

Patient Reviews

I would highly recommend this practice. I absolutely love their staff and doctor. The cleaning process is so fast and the doctor is so gentle that I never have any pain during and after the cleaning. There is never a wait time, I am always called in before my appointment time. The doctor is so nice and kind and is always having great conversation with her patients.

I had a wonderful experience at the Prime Family Dentistry today. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was welcoming and calming. The receptionist was friendly and efficient, making check-in a breeze. The dental hygienist was thorough and gentle during the cleaning, and the dentist was knowledgeable and took the time to address all of my concerns. The office was clean and modern, and I appreciated the attention to detail in ensuring a comfortable experience. I highly recommend Dr. Yerabollu's practice for anyone seeking quality dental care in a friendly and professional environment.

I had a great experience. As a new patient, I requested an appointment online and I received a phone call within 20 minutes to confirm my appointment and fill up the paperwork online ahead to save time. At the office Ryan, Madina and Dr. Shubha were super nice and friendly. I felt so comfortable and I was treated like an existing patient ❤️

Let me start off by saying, I have gone to 2 other dentists in the past year who have pushed me towards a root canal even after a crown due to the pain I’ve been experiencing. I found Dr. Subha for my daughter and decided to start care with her and I’m glad I did. Dr. Subha was willing to refer me to a specialist for a root canal but wanted to make some minor adjustments to my crown prior. I figured, I’d been dealing with this for a year, I can deal with it for a few weeks longer and it has helped. I’m finally able to chew on my right side again and I’ve been given hope. Her knowledge of the cause (clenching my teeth) has also brought me self awareness to how stress impacts everything else. Thank you Dr Subha! You’re the best… and have the best bedside manners!

All our family members goes to this practice. Dr.Subha has restored our smiles 🙂 we are glad that the doctor is very friendly and also listens to us patiently and does the work professionally. Dr. Subha will call us personally to enquire about our dental health after any procedure is done. She is also taking care of our children's tooth problems with a great smile. Our Children loves to go this practice as the doctor is very friendly with our children and we are also comfortable in taking our children to Dr. Subha.

Dr. Subha is very attentive & has good-natured banter, I am impressed with how she uses monitor behind chair to explain clearly. I got my next appointments quickly (within one week). Ryan & Frohar are friendly. I can confidently say that their service is excellent.

My family and I have been Dr.Sue’s patience for years! We always get taken care of really well and have never had a problem! The staff here is super friendly and very polite! I would recommend 10/10!!!

Gum Disease Treatment at Prime Family Dentistry

At Prime Family Dentistry, we specialize in providing customized and effective care for gum disease, helping our patients achieve healthier gums and confident smiles. Whether you’re dealing with early gum inflammation or advanced periodontal disease, our expert team tailors each treatment plan to suit the unique needs and severity of your condition. Here’s what you can expect from our comprehensive gum disease treatment in Stone Ridge, VA:

Comprehensive Examination

Your journey to healthier gums begins with a detailed evaluation by our experienced team. We thoroughly examine your gums, teeth, and overall oral health to assess the extent of gum disease. Diagnostic tools such as X-rays may be used to detect bone loss, infection, and other key factors. This allows us to develop a treatment plan that’s specifically designed to restore your gum health.

Professional Dental Cleaning

For patients in the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis), professional dental cleaning may be all that’s needed to reverse the condition. During this procedure, we remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, which helps reduce inflammation and prevents gum disease from progressing. Our team will also educate you on proper oral hygiene practices, such as effective brushing and flossing techniques and the importance of regular dental visits.

Scaling and Root Planing

For mild to moderate gum disease, we offer scaling and root planing—a deep-cleaning treatment targeting areas beneath the gumline where bacteria accumulate. This two-step procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gums and smooths tooth roots to encourage gum reattachment and healing. We prioritize your comfort by offering local anesthesia during the process and ensuring precise care with advanced tools and techniques.

Advanced Gum Disease Treatments

If your gum disease has progressed to a more severe stage, our skilled team offers advanced treatment options to restore your oral health, including:

Antibiotic Therapy: We may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics to control bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the gums.
Surgical Solutions: For severe cases, surgical options such as flap surgery (to reduce deep gum pockets) or bone grafting (to regenerate lost bone tissue and support gum attachment) may be recommended.

Ongoing Maintenance

Gum disease is a chronic condition, so ongoing maintenance is crucial for long-term success. After your initial treatment, we work with you to create a personalized oral care plan. This includes professional cleanings, regular check-ups, and guidance on maintaining healthy oral hygiene practices at home. Consistent care is the key to preventing recurrence and keeping your gums healthy for life.

FAQs

What is the best way to treat gum disease?

If your gum disease has advanced, you may require:

Deep cleaning beneath the gums to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
Antibiotic treatment to eliminate infection and promote healing.
Tooth extractions if the damage is severe and cannot be restored.
Gum surgery to repair and restore the health of your gum tissue.

Can you fix gum disease at home?

Rinsing with salt water can help minimize plaque buildup, potentially lowering the risk of gingivitis. However, if gum disease develops, professional treatment is usually necessary to restore your oral health.

Does salt water help gum disease?

Saltwater is a natural remedy that can help reduce plaque and bacteria on your teeth and gums. Its healing properties effectively soothing inflamed or swollen gums caused by gum disease. While salt water can support gum health and alleviate symptoms, it is not a cure for gum disease and should be used alongside professional dental treatments for optimal results.

Is gum disease lifelong?

Gum disease cannot be completely cured, but it is highly manageable with the right treatment. Once the structural support around your teeth is lost, it’s challenging to fully restore it. However, periodontal treatments can effectively control the infection and, in many cases, help regenerate some bone and tissue to improve oral health and stability.

What is the last stage of gum disease?

Periodontitis refers to the advanced stage of periodontal disease, where the infection extends beyond the gums and begins to damage the bone structures that support the teeth. Without routine dental check-ups, the early signs of gum disease often go unnoticed, and it may progress to moderate periodontitis before symptoms become apparent.

What happens if gum disease is left untreated?

Untreated gum disease can progress from mild gingivitis to advanced periodontitis, leading to gum recession, bone loss, loose teeth, and eventual tooth loss. It can also contribute to systemic health issues, including heart disease and diabetes.

Can I treat gum disease at home?

While proper oral hygiene can help prevent gum disease, professional treatment is necessary to effectively address active gum disease. Home care alone cannot remove tartar or treat deep gum infections.

Is gum disease contagious?

Gum disease itself is not contagious, but the bacteria that cause it can be transmitted through saliva. Practicing good oral hygiene and avoiding the sharing of utensils or toothbrushes can reduce the risk of transmission.

Does insurance cover gum disease treatment?

Many dental insurance plans cover some or all of the costs for gum disease treatment, depending on your policy. Our team can help you review your benefits and provide estimates for any out-of-pocket expenses.

Meet Your Dentist

Dr. Subha Yerabollu

Dr. Subha Yerabollu, affectionately known as Dr. Sue, has served patients in the DC metro area since 2010. A graduate of the prestigious New York University College of Dentistry in 2009, Dr. Sue is deeply committed to staying at the forefront of dental advancements through continuous education and specialized training.

With a passion for preventive care and patient education, Dr. Sue empowers her patients to take charge of their oral health, ensuring they enjoy healthy gums and strong smiles for life. Her compassionate approach and dedication to personalized care make her a trusted partner in treating gum disease and promoting overall periodontal health.

Outside the office, Dr. Sue finds joy in nurturing her garden, reflecting her caring and patient nature. She is happily married and a proud mom to her daughter. At Prime Family Dentistry, Dr. Sue combines her expertise, warmth, and commitment to excellence to help patients achieve optimal oral health and confident smiles.

Why Choose Prime Family Dentistry for Gum Disease Treatment in Stone Ridge, VA?

At Prime Family Dentistry, your oral health and comfort are our top priorities. We aim to provide exceptional care that addresses your unique needs while ensuring a positive experience at every visit. Here’s why patients in Stone Ridge, VA, choose us for gum disease treatment:

Skilled and Compassionate Dental Team: Our experienced professionals specialize in diagnosing and treating gum disease with precision and care.
Tailored Treatment Plans: We understand that every patient is different, so we create personalized treatment strategies to achieve the best outcomes for your oral health.
Advanced Technology and Techniques: From laser therapy to digital diagnostics, we utilize cutting-edge tools to provide effective, minimally invasive gum disease treatments.
Education-Focused Care: We empower you with the knowledge and guidance needed to prevent future gum issues, helping you maintain a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Experience the difference of expert care delivered with a personal touch at Prime Family Dentistry!