Periodontal Therapy An Overview
Healthy gums play an essential role in supporting the teeth and structure of the bite. Maintaining gum health supports long-term oral health and protects patients from secondary oral and systemic health conditions.
Gum disease is a health condition that is caused by the build-up and spread of disease-causing bacteria. Bacteria multiply and create deep pockets into the gum line. Inflammation of the gums cause the gum line to recede, and in some cases, the gum line detaches from teeth leaving the teeth susceptible to loss. Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss.
The “mouth-body” connection concept is important to understand when considering gum health. Many recent studies indicate that patients with gum disease are at a higher risk of developing severe systemic and cardiovascular disease. Patients with gum disease are encouraged to visit the dentist more frequently to monitor and control the spread of bacteria.
Gum disease is a prevalent disease that affects the health and stability of the gums and teeth. Nearly 75% of adult patients experience some degree of periodontal disease. Gum disease can occur in both children and adult patients. Routine visits to the dentist, and good at home oral hygiene are the best ways to prevent and control the development of gum disease in patients of all ages.
Periodontal Therapy What to Expect
Treatment for gum disease will vary depending on the progression of the disease and the damage it has caused to the teeth and gums. Your Ridgetop dentist will thoroughly analyze the health of the gums, teeth and bite before recommending the best periodontal therapy option to restore your oral health.
Periodontal Therapy Reston, VA
- Improved oral hygiene: for many patients showing early signs of gum disease Dr. Datta may recommend some personalized tips on how to improve your at-home oral hygiene. Brushing more often, flossing daily or increasing your yearly dentist visits could help to control the spread of oral bacteria.
- Antibacterial rinses: for gingivitis, the use of anti-bacterial rinses can help to control the spread of bacteria. The easy to use rinse can keep disease causing bacteria from causing additional damage to your teeth and gums.
- Scaling and root planing: an extensive cleaning and removal of plaque built up along the gum line and tooth roots, scaling and root planing removes damaged and diseased tissue allowing the healing process to begin.
- Laser dentistry: using high tech dental lasers your Ridgetop dentist may use a treatment known as laser pocket reduction. Using a dental laser diseased tissue is removed. Laser help to stimulate natural healing and reduce the risk of the spread of disease.
For patients with advanced stages of gum disease, additional restorative treatments such as dental implants may be necessary to restore the function and health of the smile.
