An estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of periodontal (gum) disease. Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to a serious disease that can cause major damage to your mouth and even tooth loss. But if you’re suffering from periodontal disease, there are solutions. Keep reading to learn all about periodontal disease and treatments!
Signs of Periodontal Disease – Dr. Claudio Miro
Symptoms of gum disease are often not noticeable until the disease is advanced. Regular dental exams are essential.
Periodontal disease symptoms:
- Persistent bad breath.
- Red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums.
- Loose or sensitive teeth.
Periodontal Disease and Overall Health Go Hand-in-Hand
Periodontal disease doesn’t just affect your mouth. It’s also been connected to a variety of other health problems.
Health issues tied with periodontal disease:
- An increased risk of stroke or heart attack.
- An increased risk of premature delivery and low birth babies.
- Difficulty controlling blood sugar levels for people with diabetes.
Periodontal disease affects millions of Americans. Are you one of them?
If you have been told that you have periodontal disease, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans suffer from some form of gum disease. But, no matter the stage, it is essential to seek periodontal treatment in order to stop it in its tracks and save your smile.
Periodontal disease is a direct result of plaque. Plaque is a stick and colorless buildup of bacteria on your teeth. Even though brushing and flossing helps get rid of plaque. Plaque that isn’t removed then hardens and forms tartar, which only professional dental cleanings can remove. The longer plaque and tartar are on teeth; the more periodontal disease will progress.
Periodontal treatments are used to control the infection. The type and number of treatments will vary, depending on the level of the gum disease. Some popular periodontal treatments include deep cleaning (scaling and root planning, medications, and surgical procedures. No matter your treatment, its imperative that you keep up a good oral health routine at home.
There are a variety of different steps that you can take to prevent periodontal disease. Some examples include: brushing and flossing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, visiting your dentist regularly for a check-up and professional cleaning, eating a well balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco products.
Deep Cleaning for Periodontal Disease
Deep cleanings, also known as scaling and root planning, is a deep-cleaning method used by your dentist or dental hygienist to remove plaque. Scaling scrapes of the tartar above and below the gum line while root planning rets ride of the rough spots of bacteria on the tooth root.
Medications for Periodontal Disease
Medications are often used with other periodontal treatments, such as scaling and root planning. Some medications include antimicrobial mouthrinse, antiseptic chips, antibiotic gel or microspheres, and enzyme suppressants.
Surgical Treatments for Periodontal Disease
Surgery may be necessary if inflammation and deep pockets still remain after deep cleaning and medications. Some surgical treatments include flap surgery and bone and tissue grafts.
Miro Dental Centers
Miro Dental Centers offers four convenient locations to better serve you! Give us a call if you have any questions or concerns about your dental health. Our goal is to give you a smile that you are proud of!
Hialeah