Do your teeth bleed when you brush? Does bad breath linger long after you’ve rinsed with mouthwash? Bad breath and bleeding gums are just a few of the symptoms of periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that half of American adults over the age of 30 have periodontal disease.
At Palm View Dental Alhambra, we take the treatment of periodontal disease very seriously. You see, it’s not just a problem that affects the health of your teeth and gums. What’s happening in your mouth is definitely linked to your overall health. Chronic gum disease can lead to problems like heart disease, respiratory disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications.
We work hard to create an environment that’s warm, friendly, and welcoming for patients of all ages. Building a strong relationship helps us get to know you and understand what’s important to you. We’ll work with you to fix any current concerns and reduce the risk of developing additional problems in the future.
How Does Gum Disease Start?
Periodontal disease is a chronic infection that can damage your gums and the bones that support your teeth. It most often develops as a result of improper oral hygiene and putting off regular dental exams and cleanings.
Gum disease starts when plaque builds up between the teeth and under the gum line. Without treatment, pockets open up, separating the teeth and gums. Your teeth may loosen and, without treatment, they may be lost.
How Do You Treat Periodontal Disease?
The treatment our hygienist recommends for you depends on the general health of your teeth and the severity of the infection. For mild cases, a thorough cleaning with frequent follow-ups may be all that’s needed to get gum disease under control.
For more advanced cases, we’ll need to perform a deep cleaning procedure, referred to as scaling and root planing. This involves thoroughly clearing away any bacteria, then smoothing the surface of the teeth to eliminate spots where they can collect.
The affected area will be irrigated with an antibacterial rinse to flush out any remaining bacteria and give you a fresh start. Finally, the periodontal pockets are sealed with a laser to minimize bleeding and promote healing.
Our hygienist will recommend that you return in several weeks for a follow-up visit. She may also suggest scheduling more frequent cleanings in the future so we can stay a step ahead of the disease.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent gum disease from occurring in the first place. With sound oral hygiene practices and regular appointments for dental cleanings and exams, you may never have to worry about periodontal disease!
We’re Look Forward to Meeting You!
The professional team of Alhambra dentists at Palm View Dental looks forward to meeting you and helping you get the important dental care you need for a healthy smile. Please give us a call, and a friendly member of our team will be happy to assist you.