Periodontics
When left untreated, periodontal (gum) disease can inevitably lead to tooth loss. The term "periodontal" means "around the tooth." Therefore, periodontal disease affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth.
The infection starts when the gums become inflamed due to bacteria in plaque, a sticky, colorless film that forms on your teeth. While this is often the main cause of periodontal disease, other factors can also be attributed to affecting the health of the gums and bone, including:
- Smoking or Tobacco Use
- Stress
- Genetics
- Pregnancy
- Medications
- Diabetes
- Poor Nutrition
Periodontal disease comes in many forms. Gingivitis is perhaps the mildest form of gum disease. While the gums become red, swollen and bleed easily, there is very little to no discomfort associated at this stage of the disease. Through a good oral hygiene regimen and treatment from your dentist, the results of gingivitis can be reversed.
Periodontitis is another form of periodontal disease and can be aggressive or chronic. Aggressive periodontitis displays rapid bone destruction and attachment loss in clinically healthy patients. Chronic periodontitis is one of the most common forms of periodontal disease and is frequently seen in adults. The stages progress slowly and can be recognized by gum recession and pocket formation.
Treatment and Prevention
In certain cases, periodontal surgery may be recommended to treat periodontal disease when non-surgical treatment is ineffective. We may advise procedures such as pocket reduction, soft tissue grafts or bone regeneration to treat periodontal disease. If a tooth has been lost due to periodontal disease, dental implants are always an option for permanent tooth replacement.
Good oral hygiene and regular visits with your dentist and periodontist can prevent periodontal disease. Daily brushing and flossing can keep plaque to a minimum and, in conjunction with professional cleanings 2-4 times a year, can keep your teeth healthy for life.
Home Instructions Following Periodontal Therapy
Care of Your Mouth
Rinse your mouth 2 to 3 times a day. Use one-teaspoon salt with 8 oz. water heated to coffee temperature. Start this home care immediately. In the beginning, you may have to be gentle.
Discomfort
Non-prescription pain medication should help with aching discomfort of your gums. You may have temporary sensitivity to cold. Use small amounts of desensitizing or fluoride toothpaste on the areas to reduce sensitivity.
Eating
Your next meal should be soft. Avoid any hard candy, crispy foods like potato chips, popcorn, carrots, small seeds like sunflower, poppy and pumpkin, etc. for the next 3 to 4 days.
Swelling
Swelling or jaw stiffness occurs very seldom. However, if you should experience mild swelling, place warm, moist towels to the face in that area.
Smoking
Please do not smoke for 24 hours or longer. Tobacco smoke is an irritant to healing.
Please do not hesitate to call the office if you are concerned that your healing is not normal. 654-0267