Periodontal disease is an advanced gum infection that reaches the gum line. There is inflammation of the gums that progresses to the bones that secure the teeth to the tooth roots. In the worst cases, there is tooth loss.
Signs of Periodontal Disease and How it is Treated
Advancing gum disease can be painless, so seeing a dentist on a routine schedule is the best way to detect it. There are signs that may indicate gum disease is developing. Persistent swelling and bleeding of the gums is a sign of early gum disease. Gums that are beginning to recede from the teeth is another sign. Loosening teeth, bad breath and pus build up around the teeth are all indications of periodontal disease.
Bleeding gums could mean there is an accumulation of bacteria in that area. Infections like this spread if it is not contained and eliminated. When it spreads, the structural parts of the jawbone can deteriorate.
There is a way to stop tooth loss from periodontal disease with an extensive treatment plan. Bacteria in plaque is the main culprit in periodontal disease. The dentist first needs to remove the bacteria that is causing the disease.
A dentist will begin with non-surgical periodontal treatments in Parker CO. Treatment is provided in a procedure called scaling and root planing. The dentist scrapes plaque and tartar away from the teeth and root surfaces. In the second step, rough spots are smoothed down to prevent more bacteria from growing.
Pocket reduction is required when gum tissue is loose against the teeth. This makes it very easy for bacteria to get trapped in those pockets. This change happens to some patients with the disease.
Flap surgery is the pocket reduction procedure that tightens the gums and secures them more closely to the teeth. The gum tissue is folded back in this surgery. Click here to learn about other periodontal treatments in Parker CO.
Preventing Periodontal Disease from Returning
It’s mostly up to the patient to prevent periodontal disease from returning. The dentist treating the patient will make sure proper brushing and flossing is happening at home. There are toothpaste and mouthwash products designed to protect the teeth of people who previously had gum disease. Contact Holly B. Sletten to begin an oral care plan. For more information visit https://www.hollyslettendmd.com/
