According to the American Academy of Periodontology, a staggering 50 percent of Americans over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease. That’s a lot of people. Not only can gum disease harm your teeth, it can also contribute to several bodily complications.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is the inflammation and eventual deterioration of the gums. Signs of periodontal disease can include bleeding gums, loose teeth, bad breath, receding gums, red and swollen gums, and discomfort while brushing or flossing.
Starting as gingivitis, gum disease is caused by bacteria and plaque hardened into tartar, which irritates and damages the gums. As gingivitis develops into periodontitis, pockets between gums and teeth begin to form, separating teeth from their supporting bone and eventually causing tooth loss. Gum disease has also been known to lead to systemic-related issues, such as heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer’s disease.
What’s the best way of treating gum disease?
In dentistry and healthcare, prevention is the best method for addressing issues. Early stages of gingivitis can usually be spotted by your dentist, which makes regular visits to the dental office incredibly important to maintaining optimal oral health. Otherwise, regular brushing twice a day and routinely flossing can greatly improve chances of preventing gum disease.
On the other hand, when prevention is no longer an option for those with periodontal disease, scaling and root planing becomes the best solution. Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, involves using manual or ultrasonic dental tools to remove tartar and plaque below the gum line and generally clean the surface of the tooth to allow the body’s natural healing process to take place. This treatment also involves root planing, which levels the tooth, removing any pockets where bacteria may be susceptible to hiding and developing.
In addition to receiving professional care for gum disease, patients are advised to continue maintaining proper dental care to prevent reoccurrence and promote the body’s natural healing process.
Learn More!
Putting the right practices in place can improve your overall health and increase of the likelihood of maintaining all dentition later in life. Discover more about how to treat and prevent periodontal disease by calling or visiting Austin Park Dental in Barberton. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Lynn or Dr. Bruce today!