Pasadena Texas Periodontal Disease:
Periodontal diseases (gum disease) is simply put an infection of the gum tissue. This infection destroys the gum tissue and bone support of the teeth. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease. Dental plaque is a blanket of bacteria that is clumped together. It is the white accumulation on your teeth and gum tissue. Daily brushing and flossing is vital to removing the plaque that causes periodontal disease.
The inflammation and infection of your gums and the bone that supports your teeth constitute periodontal disease. This type of infection can be caused by poor hygiene, but some individuals are more susceptible to it. Symptoms include poor breath, loose teeth, and swollen, bleeding gums. Depending on the severity of the disease, there are several available treatments.
Why is oral hygiene so important?
Adults over the age of thirty-five lose more teeth to periodontal disease (gum diseases) than from dental decay. The best way to prevent decay and periodontal disease is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily. Dr. Nugent recommends using an electric tooth brush to help remove plaque. Flossing will get the bacteria and plaque out that is between your teeth.
If dental plaque is not removed by daily brushing and flossing, plaque will harden into a rough, cement like substance known as calculus (or tartar).
Bacteria found in plaque and tartar produces toxins and wastes that irritate the gum tissue. The gum tissue will turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this irritation is extended, the gums separate from the teeth, causing pockets (spaces) to form. This larger pocket allows more bacteria to accumulate thus accelerating the disease processes. As periodontal diseases advances, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place rapidly deteriorate. If left untreated gum disease leads to tooth loss.
Gum disease continues to worsen without treatment, inflicting havoc on your oral health. It results in a cycle of infection that can contribute to tooth loss.
Periodontal Disease Videos:
What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease symptoms may include:
- Bleeding gum tissue.
- Unpleasant taste.
- Loose teeth.
- Reddish or purplish gums.
- Teeth that are shifting.
- Soreness.
- Bad breath.
- Pain when chewing.
- Gums that pull away from your teeth
- A change in the way your teeth fit together.
- Teeth falling out
Dental care and better oral hygiene
People with gingivitis may be able to reverse the condition with regular dental cleanings and improved oral hygiene. Because bone loss has not yet occurred, this conservative approach eliminates hazardous oral bacteria before the disease can progress.
Proper oral hygiene consists of brushing two to three times per day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for examinations and cleanings.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is the initial therapy to treat gum disease.. Plaque and pathogens are removed from deeper beneath the gums, where a toothbrush and floss cannot reach. This treatment is recommended for patients with moderate gum disease.
During this procedure, a dental hygienist scales and planes the root surfaces of your teeth to prevent pathogens from reattaching. Typically, the procedure is performed in at least two visits under local anesthesia.
About:
Dr. Michael Nugent is a general dentist located at 3421 Burke Rd Ste A, Pasadena, Texas 77504. He is a regional leader in dentistry and has been voted BEST PASADENA TEXAS DENTIST multiple times. Don’t let gum disease destroy your oral health. Get the best in dental care for you and your family.