Did you know that almost half of American adults have some form of gum disease? Gum, or periodontal, disease is a serious infection that can damage more than just your gums. The disease has been linked with various systemic health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. In addition, gum disease can result in chronic bad breath, tooth and bone loss.
Gum disease is categorized in three stages, beginning with gingivitis. This is where the earliest symptoms of the infection begin. If treated during this stage, any effects of the disease can be reversed. If left untreated, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis and advanced periodontitis, where permanent damage can occur.
Gum disease treatment with scaling and root planing is recommended in the early stages of periodontal disease, so that we may arrest the infection and prevent bone loss, loose teeth and ultimately tooth loss. During this non-surgical procedure, a local anesthetic may be applied to prevent any discomfort. We will then use specialized tools to provide a deep cleaning to your teeth and gums. Plaque and calculus will be removed above and below the gumline, and the tooth roots will be smoothed. After your appointment, we may provide an oral rinse to rid your mouth of any additional bacteria, and to reduce the risk of infection.
Sought out to keep your gums healthy following gum disease treatment, periodontal maintenance provides a long-term solution to those with periodontal disease. This maintenance therapy program requires regular visits to our office, and an oral health plan to keep you on track with daily flossing and brushing techniques. A therapeutic cleaning, rather than a preventative cleaning, will take place, and below-the-gum plaque and tartar removal will occur.