Periodontal Therapy
Your gums are essential to having a healthy smile. Without them, the bone below will give way. Gum (periodontal) disease and receding gumlines give way to loose teeth that are at risk of falling out.
Some of the most common complications caused by periodontal infections include:
- Bad breath
- Sore teeth
- Bleeding gums
- Gaps between teeth
- Heavy tartar buildup
- “Long” teeth
The Oral-Systemic Connection
The dental bacteria found inside of infected gum tissues have been shown to spread through the cardiovascular system, lodging themselves within blood vessels. As a result, they increase inflammation and overall bacterial levels throughout the body.
As gum disease goes untreated, its severity is directly linked to major health conditions like:
- Diabetes
- Heart attack and stroke
- Pneumonia
- Infertility (both men and women)
- Preeclampsia
Fortunately, treating active periodontal diseases can boost your immune system as well as help to save your teeth!
Do I Have Periodontal Disease?
A thorough gum exam will consist of measuring specific points around each tooth, as well as a series of X-rays, to determine the extent of tissue detachment. If you have sore gums that bleed easily, there is likely some type of gum infection that is present.
Catching inflammation at the earliest stages of gingivitis is ideal, as mild gingivitis is completely reversible. But untreated periodontal disease requires more extensive therapy.
Gum Disease Treatments
A series of deep cleanings (periodontal therapy) removes calcified tartar and soft bacteria from the deep gum “pockets” around your teeth. In some cases, we prefer to numb one part of your mouth at a time, breaking the cleaning process up across a couple of different visits.
If you suspect that you have gum disease or already know that periodontal infections tend to run in your family, request a comprehensive gum exam today. We’ll do everything we can to help you avoid tooth loss!