Did you know that more than half of Americans over the age of 30 have some form of periodontal (gum) disease? That is why we, at Main Street Dental Smiles, emphasize its prevention, treatment, and management. We are all about maintaining our valued patients' healthy and confident smiles for many years to come!
What Are the Causes of Periodontal Disease?
Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms continuously on the teeth, irritates the gums and causes inflammation, which leads to gingivitis, the early stage of periodontal disease. The condition is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with treatment and meticulous oral hygiene practices.
If not treated, gingivitis can progress to a potentially serious condition known as periodontitis. The gum tissues begin to pull away from the teeth, leaving pockets that house bacteria, which eventually cause bone loss and tooth loss. Periodontitis symptoms include spacing between the teeth where the gums have receded, a metallic taste in the mouth, and sensitivity to chewing. Patients also report bad breath, a condition known as halitosis.
How Does Periodontal Disease Impact Your Health?
Researchers have established a link between periodontal disease and serious health problems, including diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and more. Additionally, gum disease can cause problems in pregnancy.
What Are the Treatment Options of Periodontal Disease?
The first approach to periodontal disease treatment is a nonsurgical deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing. Scaling involves scraping and cleaning off the plaque and tartar built up on your teeth and above and below the gum line. Next is root planing, which smooths out any rough spots on your tooth roots to discourage future plaque buildup and to promote the reattachment of the gums to the clean and smooth surfaces of your teeth.
In some cases, we may recommend oral or topical antibiotics along with deep cleaning to control the gum infection and help prevent the progression of the condition. If, however, the gum inflammation and pockets persist, we may recommend surgical intervention. Your trusted team at Main Street Dental Smiles will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan for the best possible outcomes.
Periodontal Maintenance
After treatment, you will need a meticulous home care regimen to keep gum disease from recurring or progressing. That includes daily brushing and flossing and rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash to help reduce bacteria in the hard to reach areas of your mouth.
We will likely recommend periodontal maintenance visits every 3-4 months instead of the standard cleanings every six months. During your appointments, we will thoroughly clean your teeth, evaluate your gum health and recession, and measure the pockets' depth. Our goal is to ensure the condition does not progress and that your gums and bone stay healthy and sound.
Quality Periodontal Care in Near Me
Contact Main Street Dental Smiles in Whitesboro, TX, to learn more about the prevention, treatment, and management of gum disease. Our expert team, led by our acclaimed prosthodontist, Dr. Schilling, is committed to providing exceptional care in a comfortable and relaxed environment. Call us and schedule your appointment today!
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