What Is Gum Disease?
Russellville, AL
 Periodontal disease (also commonly called gum disease) is a progressive oral health issue that can lead to serious complications, including tooth loss. However, when periodontal disease starts, it is barely noticeable, and often goes undetected. Known as gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen gums. This occurs as a result of plaque and bacteria buildup, which irritates (and inflammation) of the gum tissue.
These symptoms often go unnoticed or are mistaken for aggressive brushing or flossing. When untreated, gum disease begins to progress. Bacteria fall below your swollen gums and attack from the inside, harming gum tissue, bone, and periodontal ligaments. Eventually, your gums begin to recede, your teeth become loose, and they may even fall out. Bacteria can even enter the bloodstream, which can then contribute to serious health issues such as stroke, heart attack, and diabetes. At Singing River Dentistry, we can help to treat your gum disease, restoring the health of your mouth, with periodontal disease maintenance.
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What is Periodontal Disease Maintenance?
Periodontal disease maintenance is a treatment that involves periodic visits to the office for care. This treatment is usually done following specific treatments for periodontal disease, commonly scaling and root planing. The time between your visits depends on your specific situation and the severity of your periodontal disease. Typically, the visits are every three months, but some patients need visits as frequently as every two months, while others can go as long as six months between visits.
Periodontal disease maintenance involves a thorough oral exam. We take a look at the condition of your gums, as well as your teeth. We measure your periodontal pockets, checking to see that the depth is becoming shallower (which shows the reattachment of your gums to your teeth). We will also take X-rays. These images enable us to see below the gum line, allowing us to assess the roots of your teeth as well as the condition of your jawbone. After your exam, we then clean your teeth, removing plaque, bacteria, and other debris that may have accumulated on your teeth between visits.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a procedure designed to stop the progression of periodontal disease so that your gums can start to heal. Scaling is the cleaning of all surfaces of your teeth, with a particular focus on the gum line. Root planing is the smoothing of your tooth roots, which helps to ensure that no new bacteria can accumulate. Once the teeth are cleaned, an antibacterial agent is used to kill any remaining bacteria.
What are the Benefits of Periodontal Disease Maintenance?
Periodontal disease maintenance has many benefits:
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It slows the progression of periodontal disease.
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With the easing of irritation and swelling of the gum tissue, your gums can begin to heal.
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Your teeth receive a thorough cleaning. Even the most stubborn tartar (hardened plaque that cannot be removed by brushing) is removed.
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The health of your mouth is protected. |
Maintaining a Healthy Mouth
While periodontal disease maintenance helps to slow and stop the progression of periodontal disease, these treatments will not be effective if you do not take steps to maintain the health of your mouth. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once. A diet rich in nutrient dense foods can also be beneficial, as they provide your gums with the vitamins and minerals they need to heal and stay healthy, as well as fight off oral bacteria. By maintaining your oral health, you can help to prevent the new periodontal disease from occurring.
Contact Us Today!
If you have periodontal disease, periodontal maintenance can help. For more information, contact Singing River Dentistry at 256-460-4191 today.
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