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All About Periodontal Therapy In Boca Raton
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a prevalent dental issue among adults. Approximately 30% of the population suffers from gum disease, making it the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Many cases of dentures stem from the effects of this condition. Although not curable, gum disease can be managed with a targeted approach, similar to managing other chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.
Gum disease can sneak up on you with minimal signs or symptoms in the beginning stages. Patients often discover the damage in their mouths when it's already progressed significantly. Think of the gums and bone around your teeth as the foundation of a house - if it weakens, everything else falls apart. It's crucial to have regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and maintain good oral hygiene to catch and effectively treat gum disease.
Perio Trays Reach Bacteria Toothbrushes Can't
Perio Tray Therapy for Gum Disease
Gum Disease Diagnosis
At My Dentist For Life, we use objective clinical data to diagnose and grade gum disease. The normal depth of the gum around each tooth is 2-3 millimeters, easily cleaned with floss or toothpicks. Our team can measure and chart multiple areas to determine if the disease is present, with deeper readings indicating more advanced disease. We also consider the texture, shape, and movement of your gums, as well as the bone levels around your teeth on digital x-rays. By combining these findings, we can provide a clear picture of your gum condition.
Treatment
Once a diagnosis has been made to determine the severity of gum disease, a personalized treatment plan can be created for you. For milder cases with minimal bone loss, a few visits with our hygiene team may be all that is needed to bring the condition under control. With a strategy for daily home care and a maintenance schedule in place, additional treatment may not be necessary.
If the inflammation has progressed with noticeable bone loss, it is important to take a proactive approach to stop further damage. Numbing of the gums may be recommended for comfort during a deeper cleaning process, which is typically done one area at a time over multiple visits. Thorough cleaning above and below the gum line, including removal of tartar and infected pockets, is essential. Polishing the teeth to create smooth surfaces that resist staining and plaque buildup usually completes this initial therapy.
Dr. Rizvi may suggest a medicated rinse, electric toothbrush, Waterpik, or other strategies to support your ongoing efforts. It's important to remember that while gum disease can be managed, it cannot be cured. Consistent daily care is necessary to control the disease.
Maintenance Matters
It is crucial to maintain regular home care to stop the progression of gum disease. Bacteria can quickly repopulate and adhere to teeth within hours of a cleaning, leading to plaque hardening and mineralizing within 24 hours if left undisturbed. Deeper gum pockets require extra diligence to prevent bacteria from causing further damage to the teeth's foundation.
For hard-to-reach areas in gum pockets damaged by bacteria, a customized maintenance schedule with us is essential. We can tailor a plan for 2, 3, or 4 visits a year based on the severity of the disease and its response to treatment and home care.
If our efforts are not successful in stopping your gum disease, we may recommend a referral to a periodontist, a specialist with expertise in treating various gum conditions. Further treatment options may be suggested by the periodontist.
Mouth-body Connection
Ongoing research shows strong connections between bacterial infections in the mouth and health issues in other parts of the body. Studies have found links between oral bacteria and conditions like heart disease, stroke, arthritis, Alzheimer's, and certain cancers. The relationship between oral and overall health is now better understood than ever before.
When gums bleed, they provide a direct pathway for toxic oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream. If all bleeding gums were connected, they would create a 2 x 2-inch square - a size that would be concerning for infection if it were on the skin. Bleeding gums, filled with bacteria, act as an open door to the body, explaining why oral bacteria can be found in various areas of the body.
Individuals with diabetes and other autoimmune disorders have a weakened ability to fight infection, allowing gum disease to progress more rapidly and destructively. Research also shows that inflammation in the mouth can worsen diabetes, making it harder to manage. This two-way relationship between chronic conditions highlights the importance of maintaining optimal oral health.
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My Dentist For Life of Plantation is accepting new patients of all ages. We offer a full suite of services, including breathtaking, customized smile makeovers. Call today to schedule an appointment!
