What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, encompasses a range of inflammatory conditions affecting the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth, collectively termed the "periodontium." Similar to tooth decay, gum disease arises from harmful bacteria within dental plaque and tartar that accumulate around the teeth and beneath the gums. Given that gum disease often advances without causing noticeable pain, it may go undetected. Therefore, maintaining consistent good oral hygiene practices and regularly visiting your dentist for checkups, professional cleanings, and routine care is crucial. Additionally, being attuned to the signs and symptoms of gum disease is essential for preserving a healthy smile.
Some indications that you may have periodontal disease include:
- Inflamed and red gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums and exposed tooth root surfaces
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Teeth that feel loose
- New spaces developing between the teeth or a change in the bite
- Change in the fit of existing partial dentures
- Discharge around the teeth and gums
- Sharp or dull pain when biting down or chewing food
The Importance Of Good Oral Health
Safeguarding a healthy smile extends beyond the well-being of your teeth and gums; it significantly contributes to your overall health. Recent research indicates that periodontal disease, a primary cause of tooth loss in adults, is associated with various medical conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory problems.
At Lakeview Family Dentistry, we place a premium on the importance of early prevention, detection, and treatment of periodontal disease. Our objective is to provide patients with essential guidance, support, and treatment, ensuring their periodontal health remains at its best.
What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis marks the initial stage of gum disease, often characterized by subtle signs that should be closely monitored. If your gums bleed during brushing, appear red and swollen, or feel tender, it's likely that you're experiencing gingivitis.
The positive news is that early treatment of gingivitis can halt further damage to the gums that might occur in the later stages of gum disease. Despite the inflammation, the overall health of the gums remains intact at this stage.
Addressing gingivitis promptly is frequently sufficient to reverse the condition and prevent lasting damage to the gums. Deep dental cleanings, enhanced oral hygiene practices at home, and regular maintenance can effectively impede the progression of this early stage of gum disease.
Let Us Help You Maintain Optimal Periodontal Health
At Lakeview Family Dentistry, we deliver personalized and advanced solutions to safeguard the health of your gums and maintain the beauty and functionality of your smile. Our exceptionally skilled team employs cutting-edge technology and treatment methods to address diverse periodontal conditions and needs.
Leveraging the latest advancements in dental care, our periodontal treatments not only arrest the progression of gum disease but also present effective solutions, including bone grafting and regenerative procedures. These interventions aid in repairing tissue damage, restoring bone volume, improving aesthetics, and ensuring ample support for the placement of dental implants.