Regular dental cleanings and exams are important to detect and screen for dental health problems before they become serious. Our team of dentists and dental hygienists deliver individualized preventative and educational services to promote and maintain good oral health for patients of all ages.
Routine cleanings and exams every 6 months can help to prevent gingivitis and periodontal or gum disease. If you are being treated for periodontal or gum disease you may need to be on a shortened recall schedule and have cleanings every 3- 4 months.
Periodontal Disease:
Periodontal disease or gum disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gum tissue and bone that supports and holds the teeth in place. Without treatment of periodontal disease it can lead to irreversible bone loss and ultimately tooth loss.
What causes Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease or gum disease often begins as gingivitis. Symptoms of gingivitis include red swollen inflamed gums, which bleed easily when you brush or floss your teeth. Inflammation of the gum tissue is usually caused by plaque, which harbors bacteria that builds up along the gum line and in between the teeth. Gingivitis is a reversible condition with regular dental cleanings and improved home care. Without treatment gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease, which can have irreversible effects on the gums and bone, which supports the teeth.
How is Periodontal Disease treated?
Treatment for periodontal disease depends on the severity of the diseased structures. The first step in treatment is usually a deep cleaning or scaling and root planning. During this procedure numbness is placed so a dental professional can clean deep along the gum line removing plaque and calculus. The goal of the deep cleaning is to smooth the root surface to allow the gums to re-attach to the root surface.
Following the deep cleaning a shortened recall or check-up schedule is usually recommended to closely monitor the progression of the periodontal disease. Strict home care is also very important to prevent the progression of the disease.
When periodontal disease is more advanced or is not responding to initial treatment, a referral to a Periodontist, a dentist that specializes in treating periodontal disease, may be necessary.
