1084 Main Street Holden, MA 01520
Periodontal Therapy
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile.
Regular cleanings are essential for preserving the health of your gums. Without consistent, professional cleanings, plaque and tartar accumulate, causing inflammation and potentially leading to gum recession and bone loss. This can ultimately lead to the early loss of teeth if left untreated.
More than 50% of Americans are affected by some form of gum disease, also known as periodontitis. The positive news is that with early detection and appropriate treatment, gum disease can be managed effectively. Treatment options range from non-surgical therapies to advanced procedures, all aimed at restoring gum health and preventing further damage.
Symptoms
Bleeding Gums: A common sign of infection or inflammation in the gums.
Bad Breath: Bacteria buildup can cause persistent bad breath (halitosis).
Red or Swollen Gums: Healthy gums should be pink and firm; redness and swelling are signs of irritation.
Gum Recession: If your teeth appear longer or you notice root exposure, it may indicate gum recession.
Tooth Sensitivity: Exposed roots can lead to heightened sensitivity to hot, cold, or sugary foods.
Periodontal Abscess: Infection in the gums can cause pus buildup, swelling, and discomfort.
Loose Teeth: Advanced gum disease can lead to bone loss, causing teeth to loosen.
Systemic Links
Research has shown a strong connection between periodontal disease and several serious systemic health conditions, including diabetes, kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, complications with prosthetic joints, dementia, and even pregnancy complications. Two key reasons for this link are that periodontal disease can increase inflammation throughout the body, and the bacteria found in gum infections have been detected in the blood vessel plaques of individuals with heart disease. As studies continue to explore the impact of oral health on overall well-being, it underscores the importance of maintaining optimal oral hygiene to support both oral and general health.
Prevention
The most effective way to lower your risk of periodontal disease is by brushing and flossing daily. Be sure to brush for a full 2 minutes, and consider using a power toothbrush for a more thorough clean. Regular checkups and professional cleanings every 4-6 months are also essential, as your dentist or hygienist has specialized tools that can clean areas deeper than home care alone. Along with proper oral hygiene, maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and avoiding smoking or tobacco use can further reduce your risk of gum disease.
Treatment
First, we begin by reviewing your oral hygiene habits and offering tips on how to improve your at-home care routine. Next, we perform scaling and root planing (SRP) to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar from the surfaces of your tooth roots. This is done using a combination of hand instruments and an ultrasonic device that vibrates at high frequencies. In some cases, we may apply antimicrobial treatments or antibiotics to the affected areas to support healing and help prevent the need for more invasive periodontal surgery