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About Periodontal Disease
oral health and wellness

Periodontal Disease
Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in American adults. It progresses in stages, and when caught early, it can often be reversed before permanent damage occurs. Consistent home care and twice-yearly professional cleanings and checkups are the most reliable way to prevent it. When gum disease is detected during your visit, we will walk you through changes to your at-home routine and recommend in-office treatments to get the condition under control.
Gingivitis – The Early Stage
Gingivitis affects only the soft gum tissue and may cause little to no discomfort. Even mild symptoms deserve attention, as treating gum disease at this stage prevents it from advancing to periodontitis. Symptoms may include swollen or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath or a metallic taste, gum recession, and widening spaces between teeth.
Periodontitis – Advanced Stages
Once gum disease has progressed to periodontitis, both the gum tissue and the underlying bone that holds the teeth in place become involved. Without regular dental care, many patients don’t realize how far it has progressed until moderate damage has already occurred.
Healthy Gums
Healthy gum tissue is firm, evenly pink, and snugly attached to the teeth, supported by dense underlying bone. This is the foundation of long-term oral health.
Gingivitis
Bacterial buildup triggers gum inflammation, with visible redness and swelling. Bleeding during brushing is a common early sign. Removing plaque is essential to stopping progression.
Early Periodontitis
Inflamed gums begin to separate from the teeth, forming pockets that trap bacteria, food, and plaque. The infection begins to affect the surrounding bone.
Moderate Periodontitis
Inflammation worsens, bone loss increases, and teeth may start to feel loose. Gum recession becomes more visible and some discomfort may develop.
Advanced Periodontitis
In the most severe stage, deep infection leads to painful abscesses and significant bone loss, often resulting in tooth loss without intervention.
Lane Family Dentistry provides a full range of dental services in Vilonia, AR. Call 501-796-3903 to make an appointment.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions but prefer not to call? Browse our FAQs for quick answers and a better understanding of our dental office and services.
Dental technology is an innovative piece of equipment used by dental professionals to treat, diagnose, and prevent oral health issues with more accuracy and precision. It helps patients with comfort, reduces treatment time, and delivers better outcomes.
Technology such as digital X-rays, intraoral camera, 3D imaging (CBCT), laser dentistry, same-day crowns (CAD/CAM), and computer-guided implant placement is used by our professionals at Sundance Dental & Orthodontics.
Advanced technology generates quicker diagnosis, more accurate treatment planning, and less invasive procedures. Patients benefit from reduced discomfort, shorter appointments, and faster healing times.
Yes! All forms of dental technology are tested extensively and approved for patient use. Digital X-rays emit significantly less radiation than traditional ones, and tools like lasers reduce the risk of infection and speed up recovery.