Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection of the gums and underlying bone. It is caused most often by subpar oral hygiene, lack of regular checkups/cleanings leading to accumulation of plaque and calculus which harbor bad bacteria. Other common risk factors are smoking and diabetes.
There are two major forms of periodontal disease:
Gingivitis - this is a mild form of gum disease. It usually takes a good full mouth cleaning, improvement in your oral hygiene habits and regular cleanings/checkups to get rid of this problem.
Periodontitis - is a more advanced and destructive form. The difference is the bacterial infection in this form spreads into and destroys the underlying bone which normally supports your teeth. Periodontitis can lead to teeth mobility and in severe case to a tooth loss. Studies have shown that there is a clinical link between periodontal disease and heart problems. Research also shows that almost 50 percent of adults over the age of 30 have mild, moderate or severe gum disease, which is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. It is also possible to have gum disease without any signs or symptoms. It’s always best and easiest to avoid or manage gum disease is by practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly.
The typical choice of treatment in this case would be ‘deep cleaning’ or what professionals refer to as scaling and root planning. No worries, we can assure you that you won’t feel pain during this treatment. Topical and local anesthetics are used as well as soft tissue laser which is virtually pain free. This treatment is a little more time consuming and sometimes requires 2 separate visits.
TROPHY SMILE STUDIO offers general and cosmetic dentistry to Texans living in the Trophy Club, Roanoke, Westlake, Southlake, Grapevine, Justin, Haslet and Keller areas. Let us give you a reason to smile! Make your appointment today!