Periodontal Therapy Back
Most patients understand just how important it is to keep teeth strong and healthy – but what about the gums? Today, it’s estimated that over 80% of the population may be a victim of gum disease (also known as Periodontal Disease), whether they’re aware of it or not. While this condition starts out seeming harmless, untreated cases can lead to serious consequences down the road, including the loss of natural teeth. The goal of Periodontal therapy is to restore diseased tissues to health. Gum (Periodontal) disease can spread from the gums to the bone that supports the teeth, and may even cause tooth loss in the most severe cases. There are very effective therapies to combat this, ranging from scaling (deep cleanings) that remove plaque and calculus (tartar) from beneath the gum line, to surgical repair of lost gum and bone tissue. That’s why Dr. Manpreet Dhaliwal and Dr. Christine Tran take this threat so seriously here at Maple Valley Dental Clinic. During your regular appointments, our team will screen for gum disease and recommend treatment if necessary to help you reclaim your oral health.
Common Signs of Gum Disease: It’s important to remember that many cases of gum disease don’t exhibit noticeable symptoms until they’ve already advanced past early stages. That’s just one of the reasons why attending routine check-ups and cleanings at Four Corners Family Dentistry is so important for you and your loved ones’ overall oral health. However, there are some tell-tale indications you can keep an eye out for at home. They include:
- Bleeding gums, especially when brushing and/or flossing
- Gum tissue that seems overly swollen, red in color, or tender to the touch
- A shift in the way certain teeth/your overall bite feels
- Teeth that appear longer over time
- Excessive bad breath that lingers even after brushing/flossing/using mouthwash
Scaling and Root Planing: These deep-cleaning techniques are the best starting point to control gum disease. Plaque and calculus (tartar) are removed from beneath the gum tissues, using hand scalers and/or ultrasonic instruments. If we determine during your examination that an infection is present, scaling and root planing may be the ideal solution that helps patients avoid the need for more invasive surgical treatment later on. This in-depth cleaning moves beyond the scope of a regular hygiene appointment. Our team will also smooth the rough surfaces of your tooth roots, which are prime targets for dangerous bacteria. Our goal is to revitalize your smile’s health and happiness!
