Why is Periodontal Care Important?
Healthy gums are essential for healthy teeth. Without proper periodontal care, the tissues that support your teeth can become inflamed and infected, leading to a variety of problems, including:
- Bad breath
- Gum recession
- Tooth loss
- Bone loss
- Systemic health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes
Regular periodontal care can help prevent these issues and keep your smile healthy and beautiful.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a chronic infection of the gums and other tissues that support your teeth. It’s caused by built-up bacteria and plaque on your teeth, which can irritate your gums and lead to inflammation. Periodontal disease occurs in stages that increase in severity with time:
Gingivitis
This is the earliest stage of periodontal disease, and it affects only the gums. The gums may become swollen, red, and bleed easily, but there’s no damage to the bone or connective tissue that holds teeth in place.
Early Periodontitis
At this stage, the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place start to break down. The gums may begin to recede, and there may be pockets forming between the gums and teeth. This can cause tooth sensitivity and discomfort.
Moderate Periodontitis
In this stage, the bone and connective tissue continue to break down, and the pockets between the gums and teeth become deeper. The teeth may start to loosen, and there may be visible gaps forming between them.
Advanced Periodontitis
This is the most severe stage of periodontal disease. The bone and connective tissue have been severely damaged, and the teeth may be very loose or even fall out. The gums may be very swollen and painful, and there may be pus or other signs of infection.
It’s important to note that periodontal disease progresses at different rates in different people, and not everyone will experience all of these stages. It’s also possible to have periodontal disease without experiencing any symptoms, which is why regular dental check-ups are important for early detection and treatment.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
One of the best things patients can do for their periodontal health is to gain an understanding of the signs of gum disease. That way, they can seek professional treatment as soon as possible. Here are some common symptoms of periodontal disease:
- Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
- Swollen, tender, or red gums
- Bad breath that won’t go away
- Receding gums or teeth that appear longer than usual
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Changes in your bite or the way your teeth fit together
- Pain when chewing or brushing.
Common Causes of Periodontal Disease
Just as important as understanding the symptoms of periodontal disease is understanding the causes. Some of the most common causes of periodontal disease include the following;
- Poor oral hygiene, which allows bacteria to build up and form plaque on the teeth and gums.
- Smoking, which can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.
- Hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy or menopause, which can affect the gums and increase the risk of periodontal disease.
- Genetics, which can make some people more susceptible to periodontal disease.
- Certain medications, such as steroids, cancer drugs, and anti-seizure medications, which can affect gum health.
- Medical conditions, such as diabetes and autoimmune disorders, which can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.
Periodontal Care Services at Advanced Restorative Dentistry
At Advanced Restorative Dentistry, we offer a wide range of periodontal care services to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. Some of our most popular services include:
- Scaling and Root Planing: This is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from your teeth and roots, helping to prevent the development of periodontal disease.
- Routine Cleanings and Exams: Regular cleaning and check-up appointments help identify the disease so your dentist can prevent further damage to your teeth and gums.
- Dental Implants: If you’ve lost one or more teeth due to periodontal disease or other causes, dental implants can be an excellent option for restoring your smile.
- Bone Grafting: If you’ve experienced a loss of bone density due to periodontal disease or other factors, bone grafting can help restore your jaw and protect your teeth.
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics can be prescribed as pills, mouthwash, or topical gel. They’re usually used in conjunction with other treatments, such as deep cleaning and scaling, for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Certain studies suggest a link between periodontal disease and other health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
In its early stages, periodontal disease can be reversed with proper treatment and good oral hygiene habits. However, once the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, it can only be managed and not fully reversed.
While periodontal disease is caused by bacteria, it’s not contagious. However, the bacteria can be spread through saliva and can increase the risk of developing the disease in others.
Dentists often recommend visiting the dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. However, if you have a history of periodontal disease or other risk factors, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
Ready to Improve Your Gum Health? Contact Advanced Us Today!
Don’t let gum disease take a toll on your oral health and overall well-being. Dr. Nishime and our experienced Honolulu team at Advanced Restorative Dentistry are here to help you achieve optimal gum health and prevent or halt the progression of periodontal disease.
Schedule your appointment with Dr. Nishime today and take the first step towards a healthier smile. Call us at (808) 732-0291 or fill out the online contact form below to get started. Advanced Restorative Dentistry provides periodontal care services to new and returning patients from Honolulu and surrounding areas such as Kailua, O‘ahu, and Kapolei, HI. We’re looking forward to helping you achieve your oral health goals!