Periodontal Prevention: The Dental Connection!

Periodontal disease is one of the most prevalent health issues in America, with the Center for Disease Control reporting that it affects approximately 65 million people, or roughly 47 percent of the population. People with periodontal disease have bacteria beneath the surface of the gums, which are responsible for tissue inflammation that can lead to pain, bleeding, gum recession, and even permanent tooth loss.  Unfortunately, the chances of developing gingivitis and periodontitis only increase with age, with 70 percent of adults over the age of 65 having at least some degree of gum disease.  However, a lot can be done to prevent periodontal disease and keep teeth and gums healthy.

Daily Hygiene.  The process you take each day to clean your teeth and gums goes a long way towards preventing periodontal disease.  Since gingivitis and periodontitis are caused by plaque build-up, the most important steps you can take to prevent them involve cleaning your teeth each morning, night and 20 minutes after meals.  Start by brushing your teeth and tongue, and follow up with mouthwash to kill any lingering bacteria.  At least once per day, take time to floss throughly along the gum line to prevent gum infections from occurring in between the teeth.

Periodontal Exams.  In addition to caring for your teeth and gums at home, it is also important to have comprehensive dental exams.  Our dental team can detect gingivitis in its earliest stages and treat it before it has a chance to progress.  Although everyone needs periodic periodontal exams, some people with certain risk factors may required them more often.  Examples include individuals who smoke or have a personal family history of gum disease.

Treatment.  If you suspect that you may be experiencing the warning signs of periodontal disease, it is important that you have an assessment as soon as possible.  Symptoms may include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, gum recession, pockets that have formed between the teeth and the gums, and even tooth loss.  If you are diagnosed with periodontal disease, treatments are available to help restore your oral health depending on how advanced the gum disease may have progressed.  For example, gingivitis may require only a thorough cleaning and topical antibiotic.  On the other hand, periodontal disease that has been allowed to progress may require scaling and root planing, and in some cases, surgery to prevent tooth, bone, and gum loss.

If you have any questions or are in need of an appointment, call our office at 918-455-0123!

God Bless,
DRT