Gum tissue, called Gingiva, is the foundation for healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. Diseased gums can lead to larger health problem, including bone loss, tooth loss, and tissue damage. Plus, several studies have shown a link between periodontal disease and other systemic diseases, such as Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Alzheimer’s. Our patients’ gum health is of the utmost importance in our dental office!
At Dentistry Today, we offer many gum treatment options to help treat any gum disease you may have:
Full Mouth Debridement: The removal of accumulated plaque and calculus on teeth.
Deep Cleaning: This includes scaling and root planning. Scaling is the cleaning of your tooth above and below the gum. Root planning smoothes the outside of the root of the tooth so the gum can heal.
Perio Maintenance: Involves a cleaning that is deeper than a normal teeth cleaning. This is because periodontal pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums where plaque and tartar build up) have formed.
Gingivectomy: A dental procedure involving a dentist or oral surgeon cutting away part of the gums in the mouth.
Bone Grafts: Uses a special bone grafting material to replace any damaged bone in your jaw, so a dental implant will be stable and secure.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal, or gum disease, is an infection of the mouth that effects the gum tissue (gingiva). The infection damages the tissues of your mouth, which provide structural and nutritional support to your teeth and bone. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth and bone loss.
The main cause of gum disease is a sticky, colorless film, called bacterial plaque, that constantly forms on teeth. If not removed, plaque can turn into a hard material called calculus. Over time, calculus irritates the gums and causes Periodontal disease if not removed.
After age 35, 3 out of 4 adults are affected by some form of periodontal disease. Brushing & flossing daily, paired with routine 6-month dental cleanings greatly reduce the risk of developing of Periodontal disease.
Don’t forget your semi-annual cleaning visit with your hygienist. Call 256-529-5179 to schedule today!
