Periodontal (Gum) Disease Treatment

The word periodontal means “around the tooth”.  Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that support the teeth.  Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva.  If plaque is not removed, it turns into tarter.  When plaque and tarter are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone around the teeth. Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. During your regular hygiene visits, we will routinely evaluate your gums to determine your level of health.

Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it!  Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless especially in the early stages.

Not only is it the number one reason for tooth loss, research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as, cancer, stroke, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk during pregnancy.  Researchers are determining if inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease affects these systemic diseases and conditions.  Smoking also increases the risk of periodontal disease. Most people do not realize that the health of your mouth is directly linked to your overall body health! 

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease. If it is diagnosed that you have gum disease, recommended treatment includes a DNA test to determine your specific strains of bacteria, customized gum therapy with a Dental Hygienist and detailed home care instruction. 

Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease:

• Bleeding gums – Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss.

• Loose teeth – Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone).

• New spacing between teeth – Caused by bone loss.

• Persistent bad breath – Caused by bacteria in the mouth.

• Pus around the teeth and gums – Sign that there is an infection present.

• Receding gums – Loss of gum around a tooth.

• Red and puffy gums – Gums should never be red or swollen.

• Tenderness or Discomfort – Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.

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