TREAT GUM DISEASE MOBILE AL - PERIODONTAL TREATMENTS

PERIODONTAL DISEASE


With proper care, your teeth and smile can last a lifetime. This means thorough daily brushing and flossing and regular dental cleanings, and check-ups to avoid tooth decay and periodontal disease. Most people know that this can cause tooth loss if not treated, but for most adults, it is periodontal (gum) disease that causes the most cases of tooth loss. If you have lost a tooth or teeth due to a periodontal complication, dental implants are a terrific solution to improve your oral health. Learn more about implants here.

Periodontal disease is caused by infection of the gums and bone surrounding and supporting the teeth. Usually painless, periodontal infections can occur at any age and usually progress slowly, sometimes completely unnoticed by the patient. That is why check-ups are important to prevent tooth loss.
The bacteria that cause periodontal disease are called “plaque”. It is a white, sticky film that forms on the teeth. This bacterium produces acid and other toxins that irritate the gums and bone, and also cause cavities.
If this plaque is allowed to remain on the teeth, it will start to harden, which is called “tartar”. When soft and sticky, it can be brushed away, but once it becomes hard, it needs to be removed at a dental office. This is why periodontal cleanings, check-ups, and deeper teeth cleanings (called scaling and root planing) are so important if you want to keep your teeth. Also, when problems are caught early, it reduces the expense of treating them. More advanced cases, or patients needing specialized care, will be referred to a periodontist, dentists who specialize in periodontics alone.

West Mobile Dental Care is conveniently located in Mobile, AL, but proudly serves Daphne, Prichard, Montrose, Fairhope, Tillman’s Corner, and other neighboring communities.

WARNING SIGNS


If you notice any of the following conditions, see your dentist immediately:

  • Gums that bleed easily.
  • Red, swollen, or tender gums
  • Pus between the teeth and gums when pressed.
  • Frequent bad breath or bad taste.
  • Loose permanent teeth.
  • Any change in your bite.

Many times, periodontal disease will not have any of the warning signs or symptoms. That’s why regular check-ups are important.

PREVENTING PERIODONTAL DISEASE


Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day, especially before bedtime. Use of a rechargeable electric toothbrush, such as Oral-B or Sonicare, is recommended. These do a much better job of removing plaque than a manual toothbrush.
Carefully clean between the teeth with dental floss once a day.
Dry mouth from medication, diabetes, smoking, gastric reflux, and other conditions can make you more susceptible to dental problems. Don’t hesitate to discuss with your dentist if more aggressive measures might be appropriate in protecting your oral health.

HEART DISEASE WARNING


Medical research has recently shown a direct relationship between periodontal disease and coronary heart disease. It is believed that chronic periodontal disease releases bacteria into the bloodstream, which attaches to the walls of the coronary arteries, leading to inflammation and eventual blockage.