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Do you have any of the following warning signs?
- Bleeding gums while brushing
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Persistant bad breath
- Pus between gums & teeth
- Loose or separating teeth
- Gums that have pulled away
from teeth
- A change in your bite
Often there is no pain. Gum disease is an infection and will not go away on its own. Recent research suggests there may be a
link between gum disease and other health concerns like heart attacks, stroke, diabetes and increased risk during pregnancy. People who smoke or chew are more likely to have periodontal disease.
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Periodontal Disease You can actively prevent disease and decay through regular home care, regular dental exams and professional cleanings. This will maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. The word “periodontal” literally means “around the tooth.” Periodontal (Gum) Disease is an ongoing chronic infection in the pockets around the teeth. The deeper the pockets, the more infection you have. In fact, this is the major cause of tooth loss.
What causes periodontal disease?
The mouth is filled with countless bacteria. Periodontal disease begins when certain bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that forms on teeth) produce toxins and enzymes that irritate the gums and causes inflammation. This inflammation, which may be painless, can damage the attachment of the gums and bone to the tooth.
There are many types of periodontal diseases and they can affect individuals of all ages. We have several non-surgical ways to treat periodontal disease. After a comprehensive dental examination, we can determine the type of treatment necessary to treat your specific problem.
What is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing are non-surgical procedures performed to remove periodontal infection from below the gum line. Scaling and planing effectively remove periodontal infections where the pockets around your gums are not too deep. The surfaces of the tooth root are cleaned and smoothed and this removes the bacteria under the gums and makes it more difficult for bacteria to grow under the gums in the future. Scaling and root planing are done under local anesthesia and are quite different from the routine dental cleaning. If only a few teeth are involved we can use a topical anesthesia to numb the gum tissue. We can also apply an antibotic into the gum pocket to help with any inflammation and to help decrease the pocket depth.
If your gums are swollen and tender or bleed easily when you brush your teeth, you may have gum disease. Prevention begins with the control of plaque and calculus, the main cause for gum disease.
Remember, even if you brush and floss regularly, you may not remove all the plaque, especially around the gumline. It is very important to schedule regular cleaning appointments with your hygienist. You don't have to lose teeth to periodontal disease.
We want you to have a lifetime of healthy smiles. |
