Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums, which can destroy the support of your natural teeth.
Dental plaque is the most common cause of gum disease and can be prevented mostly with daily brushing and flossing.
Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums, which can destroy the support of your natural teeth.
Dental plaque is the most common cause of gum disease and can be prevented mostly with daily brushing and flossing.
Adult patients over 35 years of age lose more teeth to gum disease than from cavities. Three in four adults are affected by gum disease at some point in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and gum disease is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily.
Gum disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque is a colorless, sticky film that adheres to your teeth at the gum lime. From eating and drinking various items, plaque is constantly forming on the teeth, and must be removed by brushing or flossing daily. Failure to remove plaque can result in gum disease, a hardening of the plaque (called tartar) or other dental detriments.
Periodontal Disease
The bacteria in plaque can produce toxins or poisons that irritate the gums, which may cause them to turn red, swell or bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums can separate from the teeth, causing pockets to form. As gum disease progresses, the gum tissue and bone that holds your teeth in place can deteriorate. If left untreated- this can lead to tooth loss or structural damage.
Preventing Gum Disease
The best way to prevent gum disease is effective daily brushing and flossing as well as regular professional examinations and cleanings. Unfortunately, even with the most diligent home dental care, people still can develop some form of a periodontal (gum) disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention from Herald Square Dental is necessary to prevent its progress.
Periodontal maintenance is a specialized dental cleaning designed for patients who have been treated for gum disease. It focuses on keeping the gums healthy by removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. Regular periodontal maintenance is essential to prevent the recurrence of gum disease and to maintain the health of your gums and bone structure.
The frequency of periodontal maintenance depends on the severity of your gum disease. Most patients require cleanings every 3 to 4 months to effectively manage the condition and prevent further damage. Your dentist will recommend a schedule tailored to your specific needs to maintain optimal gum health.
Periodontal maintenance goes beyond regular cleanings by focusing on the areas below the gumline where plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gum disease. It also includes deeper cleaning of periodontal pockets and monitoring of gum health, which is crucial for patients with a history of periodontitis.
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during periodontal maintenance. However, if your gums are sensitive or you have deep periodontal pockets, local anesthesia can be used to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Our team at Bellagio Dental Implant Center is committed to making the process as painless as possible.
Skipping periodontal maintenance appointments can lead to the return of gum disease, which may result in gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Regular maintenance is crucial to controlling the condition and preventing the need for more invasive treatments in the future. Keeping up with your scheduled visits helps ensure long-term gum health.
