Periodontics

Periodontics focuses on the health and treatment of your gums and surrounding structures, playing a crucial role in maintaining a healthy smile. A healthy foundation is essential for a strong smile! Taking care of your gums goes hand-in-hand with ensuring overall dental wellness. Healthy gums not only support your teeth but also contribute to fresh breath and a confident smile.

What Are the Different Types of Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a broad term that encompasses several different types of gum diseases. Each type affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth in various ways. Understanding these different types can help you recognize the signs and symptoms, as well as seek appropriate treatment.

• The most common type of periodontal disease is gingivitis. It's characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily when brushing or flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more severe form called chronic periodontitis.
• Chronic periodontitis involves inflammation and infection that damages the soft tissues and bone supporting your teeth. As it progresses, pockets form between the gums and teeth, leading to further destruction.
• Aggressive periodontitis typically affects young adults and causes rapid loss of gum attachment and bone destruction around certain teeth. This type may be genetic or related to underlying medical conditions.
• Periodontal abscesses are localized infections within the gum tissue or tooth socket. They often result from advanced periodontal disease but can also occur due to trauma or foreign objects lodged in the gums.
• Necrotizing periodontal diseases are rare but serious forms that involve tissue death in parts of the mouth, causing severe pain, bad breath, and even tooth loss if not promptly treated.

Recognizing these different types of periodontal disease is crucial for early detection and intervention. Regular dental checkups combined with good oral hygiene practices can help prevent their development or progression.

What Are the Symptoms of Periodontal Disease?

• One of the first signs of periodontal disease is bleeding gums. You may notice blood when you brush or floss your teeth or even spontaneously throughout the day. This is often accompanied by redness and swelling of the gums.
• Another symptom to watch out for is persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth. Bacteria-causing gum disease can produce unpleasant odors, leading to halitosis.
• As periodontal disease progresses, you may experience receding gums. This means that your gum line starts to pull away from your teeth, exposing more of the tooth's surface. This can make your teeth appear longer than usual.
• In some cases, individuals with advanced periodontitis may also experience pain while chewing or sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.

If left untreated, periodontal disease can cause loose teeth or even tooth loss. As the infection spreads deeper into the supporting structures around your teeth, it can weaken them over time.

How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?

One of the most common treatments for periodontal disease is scaling and root planing. This involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smoothing out rough areas on the roots of the teeth to prevent bacteria buildup.  

In more advanced cases of periodontal disease, surgical intervention may be necessary. Procedures such as flap surgery or bone grafting can help regenerate lost tissue and bone support around the teeth. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to control bacterial infection in severe cases of periodontitis. These medications can be taken orally or applied directly to the affected area.

After undergoing treatment for periodontal disease, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene practices at home. Regular brushing and flossing, along with routine dental visits, can help prevent the recurrence of gum problems.

How Can I Prevent Periodontal Disease?

Preventing periodontal disease is crucial for maintaining a healthy smile and overall oral health. By implementing good oral hygiene practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing this condition.

• First and foremost, brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is essential. Be sure to use gentle circular motions and clean all surfaces of your teeth, including the gum line. Don't forget to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or when the bristles become frayed.
• In addition to regular brushing, flossing daily is just as important. This helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline, where a toothbrush cannot reach effectively.
• Visiting your dentist regularly for professional cleanings is another vital aspect of preventive care. These appointments allow dental professionals to thoroughly remove any built-up plaque or tartar that may have accumulated despite regular brushing and flossing.
• Maintaining a well-balanced diet plays an integral role in preventing periodontal disease too. Limit sugary snacks and beverages since they contribute to plaque formation. Opt for healthier options like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains instead.
• Avoid tobacco use as it not only stains your teeth but also increases the risk of gum disease development by reducing blood flow in the gums.

By adopting these preventive measures into your daily routine, you are taking proactive steps toward keeping periodontal disease at bay!

Periodontics plays a vital role in maintaining our overall oral health by diagnosing and treating various forms of gum diseases effectively. To learn more, call us at (425) 251-6044 or visit our office, Advanced Care Dental, at 16600 W Valley Hwy, Tukwila, WA 98188. We will be happy to guide you further.