In some form or another, periodontal disease affects large numbers of Americans. Left untreated, it can range from a simple inflammation of the gums to much more serious problems that cause major damage to gums, teeth, and bones in the facial region. Dr. Ting and the staff at Think Oral Implants and Periodontics offer a wide range of treatments to combat periodontal disease, addressing the issues as effectively as possible to minimize long-term detrimental dental health impacts.
Effective Solutions for Periodontal Disease
The term “periodontal” literally means “around the tooth,” meaning that there are many types of periodontal disease ranging from mild cases of gingivitis to more advanced and serious cases of aggressive and chronic periodontitis that can have far reaching health consequences if left untreated.
Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria that are found in everyone’s mouths. The bacteria form a sticky plaque on teeth. This plaque must be brushed or flossed away to control the build-up. When it is not removed, plaque hardens and forms tartar. Brushing will not remove tartar.
When plaque and tartar are not removed for long periods of time, they create an inflammation called gingivitis. Gums turn red and swollen, and can bleed easily. Normally, gingivitis can be reversed with attentive brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist.
When Gingivitis Is Not Treated
When gingivitis is not treated aggressively and effectively, it worsens and can turn into periodontitis. Periodontitis causes gums to separate from teeth and gum pockets are formed that become infected. This creates toxins that break down the bone and connecting tissue that holds teeth in place. When this severe damage occurs, a person can suffer many types of related dental health issues, including the loss of teeth.
How We Treat Periodontal Disease
At Think Oral Implants and Periodontics, we approach treatment in a holistic way, checking patients for a variety of risk factors that may include whether or not a patient smokes, has diabetes, takes medications that impacts the flow of saliva to the mouth, or has other illnesses that can impact the gums.
We also check to see if periodontal disease is a part of a person’s genetic make-up and try to determine a patient’s brushing habits as well. Repeated harsh brushing can cause gums to recede and lead to an increased possibility of periodontal disease and cavities near the base of their teeth.
After we look at all these factors, we develop the most appropriate treatment plan that addresses immediate issues and helps a patient modify their risk factors as much as possible. We may also undertake a deep cleaning method called scaling and root planing. In some instances, surgery may also be required depending on how advanced a patient’s periodontal disease is.
Think Oral Implants and Periodontics serves patients in Paoli, Malvern, Berwyn and surrounding Pennsylvania communities.