Gum disease is not only widespread, impacting millions in the United States, but this preventable disease is also linked to tooth loss and serious discomfort. What steps will your Brighton, MA, dentists take to treat periodontal disease? What actions can you take with the help of your dentist to avoid the disease altogether?
Preventive Care
The disease begins when the gum tissue becomes inflamed. Gum inflammation, also known as gingivitis, can eventually cause pockets to form at the gumline unless treated. When harmful bacteria enter these pockets, periodontal disease develops. The causes of inflammation vary, and may include a family history of periodontal problems, inflammatory illnesses, tobacco products, and the use of certain medications. The most common cause is plaque buildup, a bacterial byproduct that irritates the gums and forms when we don’t take care of our smiles, enabling this buildup to form and remain on the teeth.
To prevent inflammation, you should take steps to control the amount of plaque that can form on your smile. To do this, brush your teeth twice a day and floss every night before going to bed. Also, be sure to see us every six months for a dental cleaning. A cleaning removes all plaque from the surface of the tooth and reduces the risk of inflammation and gum disease. Be sure you alert us if you encounter warning signs of trouble, which may include sore, red gums that bleed easily.
Managing Your Disease
While gingivitis can be reversed, there is no cure for gum disease. Which means once the disease forms, treatment to manage it is crucial. Otherwise, the issue could reach the advanced stages, known as periodontitis, in which the tissues connecting the teeth and gums become severed, leading to adult tooth loss. In order to manage the disease and safeguard your smile, we may offer antibiotic therapy. Our team could also perform a deep cleaning. Also known as a scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning involves removing all plaque and tartar (calcified plaque) from the surface of the teeth and the roots. The procedure could be completed in one visit or up to four, depending on the extent of your buildup. You then enjoy a healthier smile and a reduced risk of periodontitis. If you have any questions about the causes of gum disease, or about our options for treating and managing the issue, then contact our team today.
Don’t Ignore Changes to Your Gums!
At Brighton Family Dental Group, our team wants to help you enjoy healthy gums and a reduced risk of periodontal troubles with general and preventive care. You can schedule an appointment or consultation with Dr. Villani or Dr. Kondrat by reaching out to our office at (617) 562-5210. We are proud to offer a range of dental services to patients from Brighton, Watertown, and all neighboring communities.
