Periodontal (Gum) Therapy

According to the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, "an estimated 75% of Americans reportedly have some form of periodontal disease." (www.adha.org) This progressive disease is responsible for the majority of tooth loss in adult patients.

Understanding Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Periodontal Disease begins when bacteria penetrate between and around the teeth and grow beneath the gums, leading to infection.

• As the infection spreads, gum tissue and eventually bone are destroyed.
• If left untreated, periodontal disease can break down enough bone and gum tissue to cause teeth to become loose and eventually fall out.

Common signs of Periodontal Disease are bleeding or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, or "loose" teeth that do not have a history of trauma.

• Stress, smoking and poor nutrition can be contributing factors to gum disease.
• Research indicates that the types of bacteria that cause periodontal disease are linked to increased risk of heart disease, stroke and pre-term low birth weight.
• Inflammation related to periodontal disease can also contribute to complications in diabetic patients.

Treatment of Periodontal Disease
If detected early, periodontal disease can often be treated in our office with nonsurgical therapy supported by effective home care and medicated rinses.

• We carefully check each new patient with a thorough gum exam, and our established patients are checked regularly. Early diagnosis leads to more effective, less expensive and ultimately more comfortable treatment that does not take as much of your time.
• We sometimes work with a gum specialist, or Periodontist to maintain an assertive approach to this detrimental disease.

Contact Us to schedule a complete dental examination and periodontal health assessment – you’ll be glad you did!