Introduction

periodontal disease

Periodontal Care

Periodontal treatment is necessary when various conditions affect the health of your gums and the regions of your jawbone which hold your teeth in place. Retaining your teeth is directly dependent on proper periodontal care and maintenance. Healthy gums enhance the appearance of your teeth, like a frame around a beautiful painting. When your gums become unhealthy, they can either recede or become swollen and red. In later stages, the supporting bone is destroyed and your teeth will shift, loosen, or fall out. These changes not only affect your ability to chew and speak; they also spoil your smile.

A periodontist is trained in detecting the problem and creating the specific solution.

About Periodontal Disease

The main cause of periodontitis is dental plaque, which is also the cause of tooth decay. Plaque, a colorless “bio-film” is the source of toxins that occur both above and below the gum line. These toxins, in susceptible patients, initiate a process that ultimately breaks the protective seal the gums form around your tooth leading to inflammation, bone loss and the formation of “pockets” or spaces along the tooth surface. Learn more about periodontal disease.

Preventing Gum Disease

Three out of four adults are affected gum disease at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and Periodontal Disease is by thorough tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily, and by regular professional examinations and cleanings. Unfortunately, even with the most diligent home dental care, it is still possible to develop some form of periodontal disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to prevent its progression. Learn more about the prevention of gum disease.

Oral Hygiene

To clean the inside surfaces of the upper and lower front teeth, hold the brush vertically. Make several gentle back-and-forth strokes over each tooth. Don't forget to gently brush the surrounding gum tissue. Learn more about oral hygiene.

Oral Pathology

The inside of the mouth is normally lined with a special type of skin (mucosa) that is smooth and coral pink in color. Any alteration in this appearance could be a warning sign for a pathological process. The most serious of these is oral cancer. Learn more about oral pathology.

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