Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque and can be accelerated by a number of different factors.

Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums, which gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. There are numerous disease entities requiring different treatment approaches. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease in genetically susceptible individuals. Daily brushing and flossing will prevent most periodontal conditions.

Why Is Oral Hygiene So Important?

Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases, (periodontal disease) than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected by periodontal disease at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily.

Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque and can be accelerated by a number of different factors. Plaque is a colorless film that sticks to your teeth at the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth. By thorough daily brushing and flossing, you can remove these germs and help prevent periodontal disease.

If not carefully removed by daily brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar).

Periodontal Disease

Bacteria found in plaque produces toxins or poisons that irritate the gums, which may cause them to turn red, swell, and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth, causing pockets (spaces) to form. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss. CURRENT RESEARCH CONTINUES TO SUPPORT THE FINDING OF A DIRECT LINK BETWEEN THE PRESENCE OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE AND AN INCREASED RISK OF HEART DISEASE.

GOOD ORAL HEALTH IS VITAL TO GOOD SYSTEMIC HEALTH.

Preventing Gum Disease

The best way to prevent gum disease is effective daily brushing and flossing as well as regular professional examinations and cleanings. Unfortunately, even with the most diligent home dental care, people still can develop some form of periodontal disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to prevent its progress.

Other important factors affecting the health of your gums include:

  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Stress
  • Clenching and grinding teeth
  • Medication
  • Poor nutrition

Professional Cleaning

Daily brushing and flossing will keep dental calculus (tartar) to a minimum, but a professional cleaning will remove calculus in places your toothbrush and floss have missed. Your visit to our office is an important part of your program to prevent gum disease and help you keep your teeth for your lifetime.

Our dental hygienists are dedicated professionals with a wealth of experience and knowledge. They will work with you and us to restore and maintain your gums to optimal health.

We allow an hour for each recall visit during which time you can expect the following:

  • A review of your current medical history
  • Any updated x-rays that are required (We use digital x-rays)
  • Periodic charting of the gums to determine their health as measured by the depth of the gum tissue about the tooth.
  • Scaling and polishing of the teeth.
  • Root planning of selected sites if the need exists.
  • An oral cancer screening exam.
  • An exam by Dr. Hudson.