Many people face periodontal disease at some point in their lives. In fact, over half of the U.S. population has it at any given time. Even if you’re not feeling the effects right now, excessive amounts of plaque can be building on your teeth.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease (also known as gum disease or periodontitis) is an infection of the gum tissue due to tartar buildup below the gumline. Because tartar can be very difficult to remove, only a professional should attempt to do so to avoid injury.
So, how does gum disease happen? It’s usually due to poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing as much as you should. Coming to the dentist for a regular cleaning is one of the most effective ways of avoiding gum disease entirely. Some of the more common symptoms include:
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Bleeding gums
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Loose teeth
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Swollen or receding gums
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Teeth appearing longer than usual
Scaling and Root Planing
We can treat periodontal disease using a method called scaling and root planing, which removes the tartar. We will use a tool called a scaler to go underneath the gum, then smooth the tooth root. This process allows the gum to heal properly.
This treatment can be completed in just one visit, but it could take multiple appointments if you have a more severe case.
What are the Benefits of Periodontal Care?
Good oral hygiene is an essential part of maintaining excellent health. Some of the benefits of coming in for periodontal care include:
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Preventing tooth loss
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Stopping pain and discomfort
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Stopping the spread of infection
Need Periodontal Care in Sweetwater, FL?
Seeing us for periodontal care at the first sign of symptoms is crucial to preventing tartar from causing more damage to your gums. Contact Smile Dental & Co. today to schedule an appointment.
