Do you have red, swollen, tender gums that bleed when you brush or floss your teeth? How about bad breath and hardened plaque build-up at the gum line? If so, you might suffer from gum disease and not even know it.
If you have gum disease, be assured that you are not alone. Eighty percent of Americans have gum disease, resulting from the emission of bacteria from plaque and tarter build up at the gum line. The bacteria irritate sensitive gum tissue and promote infection.
Once gum disease sets in, the bacteria eat away at the bonds between the teeth and gums. The human mouth is moist, dark, and warm, making it the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive.
Here at Brighton Family Dental Group, we make your health our top priority. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to serious overall health problems, such as increased risk of heart attack, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and respiratory disease. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among American adults, as well.
We don’t want you to suffer now and have long-term effects later, so my team and I will design a custom treatment plan to fit your particular needs. At each appointment, I’ll screen for signs of gum disease. In the moderate to mild stage, gum disease can be treated with antibiotics and procedures such as scaling (removal of tartar from below the gum line) and root planing (smoothing teeth roots to eliminate areas of high plaque concentration). This process is called deep cleaning. After your deep cleaning appointment, frequent follow-up visits are required to monitor progress and prevent a recurrence.
If the disease progresses, specialist treatment may be required. Dr. Richard M. Kondrat is a partner in Brighton Family Dental Group, and he is our on-staff periodontist. Dr. Kondrat will evaluate your case and, if needed, perform special procedures, such as gum surgery, right here in our office.
Gum disease is not curable. However, with frequent dental cleanings and diligent oral care, your oral health can be restored. It is our goal to get you there.
To schedule an appointment, please contact my office
