What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, encompasses a range of inflammatory conditions affecting the tissues supporting and surrounding your teeth, collectively referred to as the "periodontium." Similar to tooth decay, gum disease is instigated by harmful bacteria present in dental plaque and tartar, which accumulate around the teeth and beneath the gums. As gum disease often advances without causing noticeable pain, it can easily go unnoticed. Therefore, maintaining diligent oral hygiene practices and scheduling regular dental checkups, professional cleanings, and routine care are vital. Additionally, staying vigilant about the signs and symptoms of gum disease is crucial for preserving a healthy and vibrant smile.
Some indications that you may have periodontal disease include:
- Gums that appear inflamed and red
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing
- Gums that recede, revealing tooth root surfaces
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Presence of bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Teeth exhibiting a sense of looseness
- Emergence of new spaces between the teeth or alterations in the bite
- Shift in the fit of current partial dentures
- Observation of discharge around the teeth and gums
- Experience of sharp or dull pain when biting down or chewing food
The Importance Of Good Oral Health
At Lakeview Family Dentistry, we recognize that a radiant smile is integral to overall well-being, extending beyond the care of teeth alone. Recent research underscores a connection between periodontal disease, a primary cause of adult tooth loss, and various medical conditions, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory problems.
This understanding drives our commitment to identifying, preventing, and treating periodontal disease at its onset. Our aim is to provide patients with essential guidance, support, and treatment to safeguard the health of their periodontal tissues.
What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis marks the initial phase of gum disease, presenting subtle signs that should not be ignored. If your gums bleed during brushing, exhibit redness and swelling, or feel tender, gingivitis is likely present.
Fortunately, early intervention in treating gingivitis can avert further damage to the gums that might occur in advanced stages of gum disease. Despite the inflammation, the overall health of the gums remains preserved during this initial phase.
Taking proactive steps against gingivitis is often sufficient to reverse the disease and prevent permanent damage to the gums. Deep dental cleanings, enhanced oral hygiene practices at home, and consistent maintenance can effectively halt the progression of this early stage of gum disease.
Let Us Help You Maintain Optimal Periodontal Health
At Lakeview Family Dentistry, our commitment is to deliver personalized and leading-edge solutions, ensuring the well-being of your gums and the aesthetics and functionality of your smile. Our highly skilled team employs state-of-the-art technology and treatment approaches to address diverse periodontal conditions and individual requirements.
Through the integration of the latest innovations in dental care, our periodontal treatments not only arrest the advancement of gum disease but also deliver effective solutions like bone grafting and regenerative procedures. These interventions are designed to repair tissue damage, restore bone volume, enhance aesthetics, and provide robust support for the placement of dental implants.