Periodontal (Gum) Therapy
Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining healthy gums. Without routine professional care, plaque and tartar (calculus) can build up along the gumline, leading to inflammation and bone loss, which can eventually result in premature tooth loss.
What is Gum Disease?
Periodontitis, or gum disease, affects over 50% of Americans to some degree.
It begins with gingivitis (early gum inflammation) and can progress to more severe forms, causing gum recession, bone loss, and tooth mobility.
Treatment Options for Gum Disease
The good news is that there are several treatment options available to manage and treat periodontitis:
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): Removes plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline to stop the progression of gum disease.
Periodontal Maintenance: More frequent cleanings (every 3-4 months) to maintain gum health and prevent relapse.
Antibiotic Therapy: Local or systemic antibiotics may be used to target bacteria in advanced cases.
Surgical Procedures: In some cases, gum or bone grafts may be recommended to restore lost tissue and improve oral health.
Early detection and consistent care are key to managing gum disease and maintaining a healthy smile for life. Regular check-ups allow us to catch problems early and provide the best possible care for your gums.
Signs of Periodontal Disease
Recognizing the signs of periodontal (gum) disease early is essential to preventing further damage and maintaining healthy gums and teeth. Here are some of the most common symptoms:
Bleeding Gums
– Bleeding gums are a sign of infection and often occur during brushing or flossing.Bad Breath (Halitosis)
– The buildup of bacteria in the mouth can lead to persistent bad breath, even with regular brushing.Red or Swollen Gums
– Inflammation causes gums to appear red, puffy, and tender to the touch.Gum Recession
– Receding gums may make your teeth appear longer or expose the roots, making them more vulnerable.Tooth Sensitivity
– If your roots are exposed, you may experience sensitivity to temperature changes or sugary foods.Periodontal Abscess
– Bacteria trapped in the gum pocket can lead to a painful abscess, causing swelling and discomfort as pus accumulates.Loose Teeth
– Advanced bone loss due to untreated gum disease can weaken the support structure, causing teeth to feel loose.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment promptly. Early detection and treatment are key to stopping the progression of periodontal disease and protecting your oral health.
Treatment
Our goal is to stop the progression of gum disease and restore your oral health. Here’s what you can expect during treatment:
Oral Hygiene Review
– We start by reviewing your home care routine and offering tips to improve your brushing and flossing techniques. Good oral hygiene is essential to prevent future buildup of plaque and tartar.Scaling and Root Planing (SRP)
– SRP is a deep cleaning procedure designed to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and their roots.
– We use a combination of hand instruments and an ultrasonic scaler (a high-frequency vibrating tool) to thoroughly clean beneath the gumline.Application of Antimicrobial Products or Antibiotics
– In some cases, we may apply antimicrobial rinses or antibiotics directly to the affected areas. These treatments help reduce bacteria in deep pockets and promote healing.
– Our goal is to assist your body in healing those pockets naturally and reduce the need for periodontal surgery.
Following SRP, regular maintenance appointments and improved home care are essential to keeping your gums healthy and preventing the return of periodontal disease. Together, we can help you maintain a healthy smile for life.
Systemic Links
Research has shown that periodontal disease is connected to several serious health conditions, including:
Diabetes
Kidney disease
Cardiovascular disease (heart disease, stroke)
Prosthetic joint complications
Dementia
Pregnancy complications (such as preterm birth and low birth weight)
Why Does Periodontal Disease Affect Overall Health?
There are two key reasons behind this oral-systemic connection:
Increased Inflammation: Periodontal disease raises your body’s overall level of inflammation, which can exacerbate chronic health conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
Bacteria in the Bloodstream: The same bacteria found in periodontal pockets has been identified in blood vessel plaques of patients with cardiovascular disease, indicating that bacteria from the mouth may travel through the bloodstream and contribute to systemic inflammation.
The Importance of Proactive Oral Health Care
As research continues to reveal the connection between oral health and systemic health, it becomes increasingly clear that maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing gum disease is essential—not just for your teeth and gums, but for your overall well-being. Taking care of your gums can promote better health and reduce your risk for serious medical conditions in the future.
Prevention Strategies
The best way to protect yourself from periodontal disease is to maintain excellent oral hygiene and adopt healthy lifestyle habits. Here’s how:
Brush Daily
Brush your teeth twice a day for 2 full minutes.
Use a power toothbrush for more effective cleaning.
Floss Every Day
Floss at least once daily to remove plaque and food debris from between your teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach.
Regular Dental Checkups and Cleanings
Schedule professional cleanings every 4-6 months. Your dentist or hygienist has the tools to remove plaque and tartar from areas you can’t reach at home, helping to keep your gums healthy.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support gum health.
Manage stress, as high stress levels can impair your immune response, making you more vulnerable to infections like gum disease.
Avoid smoking and tobacco use—smoking is a major risk factor for periodontal disease and slows down healing.
By following these strategies and being proactive about your oral health, you can significantly reduce your risk of periodontal disease and keep your gums and teeth healthy for life.
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