PERIODONTAL MAINTENANCE IN ARNOLD, MO
Periodontal disease is a disease of the gums. This series of conditions causes infection in the gums, which gradually destroys support for your teeth. Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss, infection, and decay.
Because different periodontal diseases require different treatment approaches, our dental office in Arnold, MO provides numerous treatment options for periodontal maintenance. We provide individualized treatment plans to target specific types of disease, to most effectively target the root of the issue.
At the heart of all periodontal disease is dental plaque. Plaque is the primary cause of gum disease, and often pairs with genetics to cause periodontal development. Daily brushing and flossing is able to prevent most periodontal conditions.
WHY IS ORAL HYGIENE SO IMPORTANT?
Adults over the age of 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases (also known as periodontal disease) than cavities. It is estimated that three out of four adults will experience symptoms of gum disease at some time in their lives. Fortunately, the most effective way to prevent cavities and periodontal diseases is to brush and floss adequately each day and adhere to a regular dental hygiene routine.
Periodontal diseases and tooth decay are both caused by a familiar villain: bacterial plaque. Plaque is a colorless film that sticks to teeth at the gum line. It is constantly forming on and over the teeth. Thorough daily brushing and flossing removes plaque, which prevents periodontal disease and decay.
Periodontal disease can be helped along by numerous factors, but is mainly caused by the bacteria found in dental plaque. If plaque is not consistently removed every day through brushing and flossing, it eventually hardens. Hardened plaque is a rough, porous substance known as calculus, or tartar. As you likely learned from your childhood dental appointments, tartar can be hazardous to your oral health.
OTHER IMPORTANT FACTORS AFFECTING THE HEALTH OF YOUR GUMS INCLUDE:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Stress
- Clenching and grinding teeth
- Medication
- Poor nutrition
Each of these factors can come together to create an ideal environment for plaque formation and the eventual development of tartar. Preventing periodontal disease involves avoiding the components identified above as much as possible.
periodontal disease
The bacteria found in plaque produces toxins (poisons) that irritate the gums. Gums, in turn, may turn red, swell, and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, gums begin to separate from the teeth, causing pockets (or spaces) to form. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place decays.
If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss.
preventing gum disease
Preventing gum disease is not complicated or difficult. Daily brushing and flossing, along with regular examinations and cleanings are powerful preventative methods for gum disease.
Unfortunately, some people will go on to develop periodontal disease despite diligent home dental care. This can be due to a number of factors, including environmental and genetic issues. Once periodontal disease begins, professional intervention is essential to effectively halt its progress. Professional teeth cleanings and regular exams will help mitigate symptoms.
If you have begun showing symptoms of periodontal disease, such as bleeding gums, reach out to our office today to make an appointment!
