Periodontal disease ranges from a mild inflammation of the gum tissues to periodontitis, a major oral disease that can result in soft tissue and bone damage. Periodontitis is the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the United States.

One of the major causes of gum disease is practicing poor oral hygiene habits. Daily brushing and flossing and regular professional exams and cleanings are essential to maintaining optimal oral health. When these practices are not followed, plaque can form on the teeth and along the gumline. If this plaque is not properly removed, it may harden over time and become tartar. Once that occurs, only a dental professional can remove tartar from teeth.

If gum disease is not treated in a timely manner, tartar may continue to build unchecked. When this occurs, the gum disease may advance to gingivitis. In this stage, the gums redden, swell, and become prone to bleeding from normal activities, such as brushing or eating. Some other common symptoms include: chronic halitosis (bad breath), sensitive teeth, and difficulty or pain with chewing. At this point, professional periodontal treatment is needed to prevent the gingivitis from advancing to periodontitis.

When gingivitis is not treated in time, it may become periodontitis. Periodontitis is the most advanced form of periodontal disease. With periodontitis, gums begin to pull away from the teeth, creating small “pockets” along the gumline. These spaces are highly difficult to clean without professional intervention and can lead to rapid worsening in overall oral health. Without prompt and thorough treatment, bone, gums, and soft tissues may be destroyed by periodontitis.

Some of the most common factors that contribute to periodontal disease developing include poor oral hygiene habits, diabetes, smoking, and hormonal changes in women. Some medications can cause gum tissue to grow abnormally, which can increase difficulty in proper cleaning of the teeth. People who are receiving treatment for AIDS are also at increased risk of developing periodontal disease.

Many recent studies have found that untreated periodontal disease may negatively impact other aspects of your overall health, especially for patients with cardiovascular disease or diabetes. Periodontal disease can also increase the risk of developing certain pregnancy complications, such as low birth weight or premature birth.

Our doctor has the training and experience to diagnose and treat every stage of periodontal disease. If you have symptoms of periodontal disease, contact our office to schedule a consultation.

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection in the gums that can impact the teeth and jawbone if left unchecked. About half of all children suffer from periodontal disease. Fortunately, if identified and treated early, its effects can be managed and even reversed to allow your child to return to optimal oral health through adolescence and beyond.

There are several factors that can lead to the onset of periodontal disease in children. Poor oral hygiene and untreated plaque are the most common, but diet, diabetes, hormonal changes, and even genetic predisposition can increase your child’s risk.

Your child should be screened for periodontal disease if their gums are:

• Sore
• Swollen
• Red
• Bleeding from brushing and/or flossing

If left unchecked, periodontal disease can cause your child’s gums to pull away from the teeth, affecting the structure of the bone beneath and potentially impacting their jaw alignment and bite. Over time, bone and tooth loss can occur.

Periodontal disease is preventable and highly treatable. Regular cleaning and exam appointments will help keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy. Teach your child about the importance of daily oral hygiene. If periodontal disease has begun, our doctor can help. Contact our office for your child’s periodontal screening today.

Are dental implants the right choice for your smile? There are many reasons why dental implants would be a great option if you have missing teeth.  Below are three ways they can change your life for the better.

1. Confidence Boost

Missing teeth can make you afraid or embarrassed to smile in public. You no longer have to worry about what other people think of you because implants are made to match your teeth. Dental implants look and feel like your natural teeth. You’ll have a ‘picture-ready’ smile that you will be eager to share.

2. Improved Functionality

Some people will opt for removable dentures over implants. Dentures can get loose and fall out when eating or speaking. With implants you never have to be afraid of that happening. Implants are securely anchored to your jaw. They don’t require dental adhesive and they can last a lifetime with proper care. Dental implants will make it easier to speak clearly and eat your favorite foods.

3. Better Oral Health

Losing a tooth can lead to additional health problems if it is not fixed.  The jawbone can weaken and deteriorate over time if there is no tooth to support it. Implants protect existing bone structure and gums from moving or shifting into gaps.

Losing a tooth or multiple teeth can have an enormous impact on the quality of your life. Implants can bring you the confidence you once felt without being embarrassed by your smile. Implants look like natural teeth so no one can tell you have them.

Unlike dentures, implants also protect your healthy teeth while keeping your jawbone strong.

To see if dental implants are the right solution for you, schedule an appointment with our team today.