Strong oral health relies on more than merely brushing and flossing. It also involves caring for your teeth’s support structures, including the gums. This is where periodontal (gum) comes into play. Promptly addressing, or better yet altogether preventing periodontal disease should be a foundational part of every oral health routine.
Today, we’re discussing periodontal treatment, and how it helps to produce healthy gums, strong teeth, and a higher overall quality of life.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
In simple terms, periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and tissues that support the teeth. Gum disease often starts with the accumulation of a sticky film of bacteria, called plaque, on the surfaces of the teeth and along the gumline.
Typically, plaque can be eliminated through proper at-home oral hygiene practices. However, if left unaddressed, plaque hardens into tartar, which cannot be treated at home. In its early stages, tartar causes inflammation and irritation of the gums, or gingivitis. Left untreated, gingivitis will progress into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease in which the gums recede from the teeth, dramatically increasing susceptibility to infection. Over time, these periodontal infections can affect tissues supporting the teeth and the jawbone, and result in tooth loss and reduced bone density.
Periodontal Treatment and Its Benefits
Periodontal treatment focuses on reversing the adverse effects of gum disease. In mild cases, scaling and root planing, a non-surgical procedure in which the teeth and roots are cleaned to remove plaque and tartar, will suffice. In more severe cases, surgical solutions like gum flap surgery or bone grafting may be deemed necessary.
The primary benefit of periodontal treatment, though perhaps a bit obvious, is absolutely vital: the prevention of damage to the gums. Achieving this results in a sturdier foundation into which the teeth can firmly anchor. This can have positive effects on overall health, as severe periodontal disease has been linked in studies to conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
In taking steps to ensure the strength of your gums in the interest of your oral and overall health, it’s also crucial to schedule regular dental checkups so that your dentist can monitor the health of your gums and take prompt, preventive measures should any issues arise.
Periodontal Care in Mt Pleasant, SC
If you’re in the Mt. Pleasant area and want to focus on your immediate and long-term gum health, reach out to Dr. Mayur Patel and the team at the Carolina Center for Restorative Dentistry. Schedule your consultation today to discuss periodontal treatment Mt. Pleasant and take the first step toward a healthier smile.