Prevent periodontal (gum) disease!
Pasadena, Deer Park residents can help prevent periodontal (gum) disease by taking good care of their teeth every day and having regular dental checkups with Dr. Nugent.
Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day. If you can do three times a day it is even better!! Brushing removes the blanket of bacteria from the teeth. Use a soft- bristled toothbrush that is in good condition. Even better, use a high quality electric toothbrush. Toothpastes and mouth rinses containing fluoride fortify the teeth and help prevent decay. Clean between your teeth every day.
Cleaning between your teeth with floss removes bacteria and food particles from between the teeth, where a toothbrush can’t reach. Early periodontal (gum) disease can usually be reversed by daily brushing and flossing improvements in oral hygiene.
Eat a balanced diet. Choose as assortment of foods from the basic food groups. Increase fruit and vegetables and decrease sugar consumption.
Visit your dental office regularly. It is important to have regular dental checkups and professional cleaning by one of our awesome dental hygienist. Call our office today for your dental appointment at 713-941-8261. Visit us at 3421 Burke Rd Ste A, Pasadena, Texas 77504. Discover why Dr. Nugent has been voted Best Pasadena Texas Dentist multiple times.
Deep cleaning (periodontal scaling and root planing)
When patients are displaying symptoms of periodontal disease, periodontal scaling and root planing, often known as a deep cleaning, is performed. Plaque and calculus buildup on the tooth and root surfaces, which results in periodontal disease, causes the gums to swell and the surrounding bone and tissue to deteriorate. Periodontal disease can cause swelling, pain, bleeding gums, foul breath, and even tooth loss if left untreated.
The Process of Scaling and Root Planing
Two appointments of scaling and root planning are performed. Each visit involves cleaning the left and right halves of your mouth, and you may be given a dental anesthetic (to numb the gum tissue) to make it easier for the hygienist to remove bacteria and calculus accumulation beneath the gum line. A follow up visit is planned to assess home care, assess healing, polish the teeth, and fine scale any discoloration, calculus, or tartar that may have persisted.
Scaling and root planing is frequently sufficient to recover from gum disease. Numerous factors may contribute to inadequate healing or persistent indications of infection in the gum tissue. In certain situations, a patient might be sent for additional care to a periodontist, who specializes in treating gum disease. For additional treatment of these trouble spots, the periodontist may undergo periodontal surgery.
What can I anticipate following root scaling and planning?
Dr. Nugent will numb they gum tissue. The the hygienist can clean out the bacteria and tartar that is below the gum tissue. The plaque and tartar may be broken up with the use of an ultrasonic instrument or hand tools. You will experience some pressure but no actual pain or discomfort because your gums will be numb. Your gums will feel tender, swollen, and possibly achy thereafter. Within a couple of hours, the most difficult part is over.
You might feel a little sensitive while eating for a few days to a week or more, especially if you’re eating anything sweet. To solve this, you could clean the area with a soft material before applying a desensitizing toothpaste to the region surrounding your gums using a Q-tip.
When you brush your teeth, there will be some bleeding, but this should only last a day or two.
Understanding Periodontal Disease: The Importance of Early Treatment
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a progressive infection of the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. It begins as mild inflammation (gingivitis) and, if left untreated, can evolve into a more serious condition known as periodontitis. At this advanced stage, periodontal disease can cause significant damage, leading to severe oral health issues and even affecting overall well-being. The key to preventing these negative outcomes is early detection and treatment.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease starts with the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If not removed through proper brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and creates an environment for bacteria to thrive. This leads to gum inflammation and infection, commonly known as gingivitis.
Without intervention, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, where the infection spreads below the gumline, affecting the bone and tissues that support the teeth. At this stage, pockets form between the teeth and gums, trapping bacteria and causing further damage.
The Dangers of Untreated Periodontal Disease
Untreated periodontal disease can have devastating effects on both your oral health and your general health. Some of the negative outcomes of untreated gum disease include:
1. Tooth Loss
One of the most serious consequences of untreated periodontal disease is tooth loss. As the infection progresses, the supporting bone that holds teeth in place is destroyed. Without sufficient bone support, teeth become loose and may eventually fall out or need to be extracted. In fact, periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
2. Bone Loss
Periodontal disease doesn’t just damage the gums; it also affects the underlying jawbone. The bacteria that cause gum disease can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. Bone loss is irreversible and can lead to changes in your facial structure, giving the face a sunken appearance and making it harder to restore teeth with treatments like dental implants.
3. Chronic Inflammation
Untreated periodontal disease leads to chronic inflammation in the mouth, which can spread throughout the body. This inflammation has been linked to a range of other health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Inflammation caused by gum disease can worsen these conditions, making it even more critical to address the issue early.
4. Gum Recession
As gum disease progresses, the gums may begin to recede, exposing the tooth roots. This can lead to increased tooth sensitivity and a higher risk of decay in the exposed areas. Gum recession also affects the appearance of your smile, making teeth look longer and less attractive.
Preventing the Negative Outcomes of Periodontal Disease
The good news is that periodontal disease can be prevented and managed with early treatment. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are essential for catching gum disease in its early stages before it causes irreversible damage. If periodontal disease is detected, treatments like Scaling and Root Planing can help remove the infection and promote healing.
Take Action Against Periodontal Disease
Don’t wait until periodontal disease leads to severe damage. Early detection and treatment can save your teeth, protect your bone structure, and improve your overall health. Contact Dr. Michael Nugent’s office at 713-941-8261 today to schedule a dental exam and ensure your gums stay healthy. Taking care of your gum health is an investment in your long-term well-being!