Periodontal Maintenance
There are many causes of periodontal (gum) disease that range from chronic conditions like diabetes, tobacco use (in all forms), chronically poor oral hygiene along with many other predisposing factors. Periodontal maintenance involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Most gum diseases are preventable with proper oral hygiene. However, what can start out as gingivitis (inflamed or bleeding gums) can quickly turn into periodontitis. In such cases, gums pull away from the tooth to create “pockets,” thereby exposing a dental root to infection. It can also lead to prolonged bad breath, loose teeth, painful chewing and other complications.
Diagnosing Gum Disease
Periodontal disease is defined as the loss of supporting bone around the roots of the teeth and recession of the gum tissue around the visible crowns of the teeth. Periodontal disease can affect only a few teeth but may affect all teeth.
Further Treatment
It is important to have a thorough examination to diagnose periodontal disease and undergo initial treatment called Scaling and Root Planing to halt progression of the disease. After initial treatment is completed, Periodontal Maintenance is completed on a 3-4 month basis to clean your teeth and to monitor the health of your teeth, gums and bone.