Periodontal Disease

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease affects the health of your gums and the bone that supports your teeth. Healthy gums are essential for a beautiful smile, but when they become unhealthy, they can recede or become swollen, leading to serious issues like tooth loss.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

  • Gingivitis: The milder form, characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. It can be reversed with good oral hygiene.
  • Periodontitis: A more severe stage where the supporting tissues and bone deteriorate, potentially leading to loose teeth and tooth loss.

Causes: The main culprit is dental plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If not removed, plaque can harden into tartar, causing gum irritation and disease.

Signs of Periodontal Disease

  • Bleeding gums: Gums should not bleed during brushing or flossing.
  • Loose teeth: A sign of weakened support.
  • Spacing between teeth: Caused by bone loss.
  • Persistent bad breath: Resulting from bacteria.
  • Pus around teeth: Indicates infection.
  • Receding gums: Loss of gum tissue around teeth.
  • Red and puffy gums: Signs of inflammation.
  • Discomfort or tenderness: Caused by irritated gums.

The Mouth-Body Connection

Research shows that periodontal disease is linked to other health issues, including:

  • Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Pregnancy complications
  • Respiratory diseases
  • Osteoporosis

Maintaining good oral health can help prevent these conditions.

Periodontal Therapy

To treat periodontal disease, we offer both surgical and non-surgical options:

  • Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar.
  • Gum Grafting: Replacing lost gum tissue.
  • Laser Treatment: Less discomfort and quicker recovery.
  • Crown Lengthening: Exposing more tooth structure for crowns.

Keeping Your Gums Healthy

To prevent periodontal disease:

  • Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss daily.
  • Visit your dentist regularly: Routine checkups are key.
  • Eat a balanced diet: Limit sugary foods.
  • Avoid tobacco: It increases the risk of gum disease.

Healthy gums lead to a healthier you! If you have any concerns about your gum health, please reach out to us today!

An animated illustration showing the process of scaling

An animated depiction of a root planing procedure