Periodontal Disease in Old Saybrook, CT
Periodontal disease or gum disease is often the result of poor oral hygiene. Patients suffering from early stages of periodontal disease are advised to come in for treatment before their conditions worsen. Periodontal disease will lead to other dental problems and eventually tooth loss when left untreated.
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
Dentists can effectively treat periodontal disease through deep cleanings. Deep cleanings are also called scaling and root planing and are used to remove tartar below the gum line. If there’s an infection, the dentist may prescribe an antibiotic course that reduces bacterial growth and fights off the infection. In severe cases where the disease has caused tooth loss, you may need a bone graft before a dental implant can be performed.
The Importance of Maintaining Better Periodontal Health
We believe that patients should understand the importance of keeping good periodontal health. Generally, periodontal disease is diagnosed when patients come in for routine dental check-ups. Early signs of periodontal disease are gingivitis. It can cause bone loss and gums to recede if it progresses into its later stages.
Common symptoms of periodontal disease include:
- Bad breath
- Bleeding gums
- Loose teeth
- New spaces between teeth
- Pain when chewing
- Receding gums
Can Periodontal Disease Be Prevented?
You can effectively prevent periodontal disease with a good dental regimen and a healthier diet. Plaque left on the surfaces of teeth can quickly turn into tartar, so making sure you regularly brush and floss after large meals will significantly reduce your chances of developing periodontal disease. You should also prioritize regular cleanings at your local dental clinic. Your dentist can get to harder-to-reach spaces between teeth and closely monitor early signs of periodontal disease. Other methods of reducing your risks of developing periodontal disease are through procedures like laser treatment and pocket elimination surgery. These procedures can reduce the size of gum pockets and help keep your teeth cleaner. These procedures are painless and can eliminate gum pockets that can harbor harmful bacteria.
Saybrook Family Dental Care is your go-to dentist in Old Saybrook, CT. Visit us if you ever need a dependable dentist to help you deal with periodontal disease.
More to Explore
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the gums that can affect the bone supporting your teeth.
Common symptoms include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth.
Treatment may include deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), medication, and in severe cases, surgery.
Yes, good oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can prevent periodontal disease.
It is primarily caused by plaque buildup due to poor oral hygiene, but other factors like smoking, genetics, and certain illnesses can contribute.
In its early stages (gingivitis), it is reversible with proper treatment and care. Advanced stages may require more intensive treatment to manage.
Regular dental check-ups every six months are recommended, but your dentist may suggest more frequent visits if you have periodontal disease.
Untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and bone damage and has been linked to other health issues like heart disease and diabetes.
