Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal disease is an infection of your gums, a disease that can slowly destroy the support that your natural teeth need. There are different treatment approaches for various sufferers, as each case is unique. Genetics play a role in this disease, and professionals have found that dental plaque is the main cause of gum disease. We implore our patients to brush and floss daily, as this can prevent most periodontal conditions.

Understanding the Importance of Dental Hygiene

Periodontal disease is the main culprit for adults over 35 who lose their teeth. Three out of every four adults will be affected by gum disease at some point in their life. Brushing and flossing will help to prevent cavities and periodontal disease if done properly twice a day.

Plaque, a yellow-white film that collects on your teeth, is the main culprit of decay and periodontal disease. It sticks to your teeth at your gum line and forms constantly. These germs can be removed by practicing good oral hygiene on a continual basis. We recommend that you brush and floss every day, twice a day, as a commitment to proper oral hygiene.

There are factors that can actually accelerate periodontal diseases. Mostly, however, gum disease occurs because of the plaque that forms every day on your teeth. If you do not remove it, it can form into tartar, or calculus, a porous substance that will cause damage to your teeth and aid in the development of gum disease.

These factors can contribute to the decline of your gums:

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Medications
• Periodontal Disease
• Poor nutrition
• Clenching and grinding your teeth
• Stress

The bacteria that are found in plaque cause toxins and poisons to develop. These can irritate your gums, causing them to become red and swollen. You may start to notice that they bleed easily. If this goes on for too long, your gums may start to separate from your teeth, in turn causing spaces, or pockets, to form. As the disease progresses, your supporting gum tissues and the bones that hold your teeth in place will start to deteriorate. This can lead to tooth loss if not treated properly.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

Brushing and flossing regularly is the best way to prevent gum disease from occurring. We also recommend that you come into Cosmetic Micro Dentistry for regular cleanings and examinations, so that we can catch any problems before they start, or at least early on. However, we do see patients that develop gum disease even after diligent dental care at home. You will need professional help if this is the case, so call us today if you feel there is a problem.