Periodontal Gum Disease
Did you know that nearly half of all Americans suffer from some form of periodontal disease? Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria around the teeth and gums, which can lead to tooth decay or even destruction of tissue and bone if left untreated. That's why it's important to have a yearly evaluation with Clark General & Implant Dentistry.
Don't wait to schedule your periodontal evaluation – call us today! Our dental team is trained in providing comprehensive periodontal care, meaning that we can offer a wide range of services to help prevent or treat gum disease. We'll work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets all of your needs.
THE MAIN STAGES OF GUM DISEASE
Gingivitis - The first stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is very common but can be entirely reversed with excellent oral hygiene and professional help. Gingivitis causes redness and swelling in the gums as well as potential bleeding during regular brushing, a receding gum line, and bad breath (halitosis). If you maintain good dental practices at home through regular brushing and flossing, you may require less frequent professional cleanings to prevent plaque tartar build-up.
Periodontitis - The second stage of gum disease destroys the soft tissue surrounding the teeth and deteriorates the roots as well. The gums are now swollen, tender, with spaces and pocket developing between teeth. You may experience infections at this stage. Professional cleanings along with scaling to remove tartar and bacteria from both above and below the gums help treat periodontitis. Periodontal root planing at the office not only removes surface tartar and bacteria on your teeth, along with an antimicrobial wash with Arestin to kill any infection-causing bacteria. To ensure periodontal disease does not come back, routine hygiene cleanings are scheduled every three to four months.
Advanced Periodontitis - At this point in the progression of gum disease, a patient has extensive loss of the healthy soft tissue and bone that support their teeth. In addition to receiving the treatments mentioned earlier, patients also go through laser assisted gum therapy. This involves using a laser to kill 99% of bacteria in the periodontal pockets. Unfortunately, some patients may need to have teeth extracted during this stage or may even elect for removal themselves as a means to rebuild oral health.
Contact Our Visalia Dental Team
Don't suffer from gum disease any longer – our Clark General & Implant Dentistry dental team is trained in periodontics and can provide you with the care you need to treat or prevent gum disease. We offer a wide range of services, from simple cleanings to more complex procedures, and we'll work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs. So don't wait – call us today to schedule your periodontal evaluation.
