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Home » Preventive » periodontal
Periodontal Care
Periodontics involves the diagnosis, treatment and prevention
of gum disease. A periodontist is a dentist who has had additional years of specialized training
in periodontics at a post-doctoral educational program and is certified as such.
Periodontal Disease is a bacterial infection of the gums,
bone and ligaments that support the teeth and anchor them in the jaw. The bacteria are normal
inhabitants of the mouth and form a film of dental plaque and calculus (tartar) which stick
to the teeth.
The bacteria produce poisonous toxins which stimulate the immune response to fight the
infection. If the disease process is not stopped, the supporting structures of the teeth will
continue to be destroyed. This eventually leads to tooth loss.
Periodontal disease can occur at any age. Over half of all people over the age of 18 have
some form of the disease. After age 35, over 75% of all people are affected. Unfortunately,
the disease process is usually asymptomatic and painless. The disease can be easily detected
during regular dental examinations.
Unhealthy gum tissue has a negative effect on total body health. This is a chronic disease that
not only affect teeth, gums, and jaw bone, but the disease process also increases our risk of heart
attack, circulatory problems, and diabetic complications. Expecting mothers with periodontal disease
also have an increased risk of premature low birth weight babies.
Take our Periodontal Self Test.
As part of your exam, your periodontal(gum) health is closely evaluated. Conditions such as
periodontal disease may require more frequent monitoring and therapy to control the disease.
Patients with gum disease may need to be seen three to four times a year until the problem is
under control. Once under control preventive cleanings, good brushing, and flossing, provide
the consistency that is most critical to maintaining a healthy smile.
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