Periodontal Maintenance
Among the causes for periodontal (gum) disease are genetic susceptibility, smoking, and other illnesses like diabetes. Periodontal maintenance involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Most gum diseases are preventable with proper oral hygiene. However, what can start out as gingivitis (inflamed or bleeding gums) can quickly turn into periodontitis. In such cases, gums pull away from the tooth to create “pockets,” thereby exposing a dental root to infection. It can also lead to prolonged bad breath, loose teeth, painful chewing and other complications.
Diagnosing Gum Disease
X-rays and a clinical exam where the gingival tissue and bone level is needed to properly diagnose.
Gum disease can be painless, so it is important to be aware of any of the following symptoms:
- Swollen, red, tender or bleeding gums
- Gums that recede or move away from the tooth
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste in mouth
- Loose teeth
- Visible pus surrounding the teeth and gums
Further Treatment
A detailed subgingival cleaning and debridement under local anesthesia for comfort often known as a "Deep Cleaning" usually is the first phase of treatment. From there a follow is scheduled in the coming weeks to analyze the next course of treatment for either periodontal maintenance or further treatment that may include a small surgery to visualize the bone level and remove any infected tissue that may still present and position the gums allow easier access and maintenance for the patient at home. Regardless the outcome once a periodontal diagnosis is made it it recommended for the patient to follow up with his or hers dentist regularly to monitor the progression of the disease.