Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal Therapy

What is Periodontal Therapy?

Periodontal Therapy focuses on three areas: 1) Treating the signs and symptoms of gum disease, a critical concern for dental health; 2) Maintaining healthy bone levels in your upper and lower jaw; 3) Maintaining healthy ligaments in and around your mouth and jaw.

How serious is gum disease?

Too often, patients wait too long between visits and by the time they see us, gum disease has quietly advanced with no pain or obvious symptoms. By the time we catch it, significant damage has been done to the bone holding the teeth. This is why it’s so important to see us regularly, and to brush and floss regularly. Even more concerning, gum disease not only affects the mouth and teeth. The infections that arise from gum disease can contribute to other health problems such as heart disease and diabetes.

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What are the symptoms of gum disease?

Consult with your dentist if you experience:

  • Red, swollen or sore gums
  • Bleeding when brushing, flossing or eating
  • Receding gums
  • Chipped, cracked or loose teeth
  • Pus between gums and teeth
  • Sores in the mouth
  • Bad breath
  • Changes in the bite, difference in the fit of dentures

What can I do to prevent gum disease?

Don’t neglect your gums! First, commit to a regular routine of oral care that includes daily at home care as well as regular, professional cleanings. Second, know the lifestyle and health conditions that put your gums at risk, including:

  • Poor hygiene, lack of routine oral care
  • Smoking or tobacco use
  • Genetic factors
  • Pregnancy and hormonal changes in women
  • Stress
  • Medications
  • Grinding or clenching of teeth
  • Poor nutrition, obesity or disease such as diabetes