Periodontal disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control, impacts half of adults over the age of 30. This could lead to tooth loss unless addressed! In today’s blog, your Syosset, NY, dentist wants to help you understand the causes of gum disease, and will explain how we treat and manage periodontal disease.
The Dangers of Gum Disease
The disease occurs when the gums become inflamed, a development known as gingivitis. Without treatment, this could cause the tissues to pull away from the teeth, and form deep pockets for harmful bacteria to enter. At this stage, periodontal disease forms. Without treatment, this could lead to sore, red and receding gums, and also cause bleeding when you brush and floss. Over time, this could reach a more advanced stage known as periodontitis, which destroys the tissues that connect your teeth and gums, leading to tooth loss.
Preventive Actions
Often, the initial inflammation could be brought on by plaque buildup, which forms on the teeth due to infrequent brushing and flossing and a diet high in sugar and starch. This buildup irritates and inflames the gingival tissues. Other causes include smoking cigarettes and using other tobacco products, family history of periodontal problems, inflammatory illnesses, and the use of certain medications. Infrequent or improper brushing and flossing is a major cause too, as is a lack of professional dental cleanings. To help prevent the disease, try a healthier diet, better oral hygiene habits (brushing and flossing), and make time every six months to see us for a checkup and a thorough dental cleaning. This also helps fight cavities, infection, bad breath, and teeth stains.
Treatment Options
Once periodontal disease forms it cannot be cured, but we can manage it with care that prevents worsening symptoms and tooth loss. For example, a deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, can remove harmful buildup and smooth the surfaces of the teeth and roots. Afterward, we can manage the disease with traditional cleanings every three to four months. We can also discuss antibiotics to assist, or even use advanced laser technology to remove disease portions of gingival tissues. Whether you have a minor or severe case of the disease, we’re here to help! If you have lost teeth due to the disease, we can also discuss prosthetics to restore your smile, such as dental bridges, partial dentures, full dentures, or even implant dentistry. If you have any questions or concerns, then please contact our team today to learn more.
Syosset Dental Offers Periodontal Treatments
Our team wants to help people of all ages enjoy full and healthy smiles with optimal periodontal health. If you have questions about keeping gingival tissues healthy and strong, then contact our Syosset, NY dental office today at 516-433-2211.
