Periodontal Treatment

It might seem typical for gums to bleed when brushing or flossing your teeth. However, these symptoms indicate the beginning of a developing condition called periodontal disease.

Periodontal Disease Destroys Teeth

The fundamental structure of your teeth can be destroyed by periodontal disease. This serious condition can start with simple swollen and/or bleeding gums and progress over time to affect your overall health. There have been several studies over recent years that connect periodontal disease with respiratory disease, stroke, diabetes, and heart disease.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

Plaque is the yellow substance that sticks to your teeth and, if not brushed and flossed away, results in tooth decay. Periodontal disease begins with simple dental plaque that hasn’t been effectively cleaned from teeth. Gums that are swollen and bleeding indicate that they’re infected with the bacteria found in plaque, and are the first signs of periodontal disease.

Signs of Gum Disease

Eventually, plaque will spread from swollen and bleeding gums to the gum line where it’s difficult to remove. When your gums swell, a space is formed between the gums and teeth, encouraging more bacteria to grow. If left untreated, periodontal disease can cause teeth to become loose and eventually destroy the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone.

Periodontal Disease Prevention

Brushing and flossing regularly, as well as visiting your dentist twice a year, can prevent periodontal disease. However, there are many additional ways to prevent periodontal disease:

• Drink water – it’s important to drink plenty of water every day because a dry mouth results in plaque build-up
• Avoid tobacco products – smoking and chewing tobacco products increase the risk and severity of periodontal disease
• Clean crowded teeth – if your teeth are crowded or supported with bridgework, your dentist can recommend special tools to clean those hard-to-reach areas
• Keep from clenching your teeth – the excess pressure can add to the symptoms of periodontal disease

How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?

A routine exam and cleaning by Dr. da Costa and his knowledgeable staff is an excellent first step to treating periodontal disease. These standard appointments often occur twice a year; however, if the periodontal disease is prominent, routine visits may be scheduled for every three months. Dr. da Costa can confer with you about treatment options.

After a basic cleaning, a periodontal treatment could include either a Periodontal Scaling or Root Planning and Scaling. Both treatments require more time and a certain amount of anesthesia depending on your personal needs.

If you have any trouble at all with your teeth or gums, see your dental professional as soon as you can to take the best possible care of your smile.