Periodontal disease impacts millions of people in the United States, leading to an increased risk of tooth loss and sore, bleeding gums. In order to treat the issue, managing the disease and even reversing the early stages, we may recommend treatment known as a scaling and root planing. When should you see your El Paso, TX, dentists for perio treatment?
The Dangers of Periodontal Disease
Gum disease occurs when the gum tissue becomes inflamed. Inflammation could be caused by poor oral hygiene leading to plaque buildup that irritates and infects the gum tissues. Smoking and tobacco use, inflammatory illnesses, and the use of certain medications could also impact your risk, as does a family history of the disease. People may begin to notice their gums feel sore, look red, swell or recede, or bleed easily when you brush and floss. Without treatment, the inflammation grows worse and the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets for bacteria to infiltrate, which leads to the onset of gum disease.
Managing the Disease In-Office and At-Home
The initial inflammation, known as gingivitis, can be reversed with routine care. Periodontal disease cannot be cured, but can be managed with care to prevent periodontitis, the dangerous advanced stage. We may first recommend a perio treatment known as scaling and root planing. We remove plaque buildup with an ultrasonic scaling device and then smooth the root surfaces. The process takes one visit, or up to four, depending on the extent of the buildup. Afterward, we will recommend routine dental cleanings every three to four months to keep plaque buildup under control. At home, you should brush your teeth for two minutes and floss every night before bed, which controls plaque by removing stray food particles that bacteria feed on, the process that causes the build to form in the first place.
The Dangers of Periodontitis
Treatment is crucial as periodontitis, the advanced stage, could attack the tissues connecting your teeth and gums, causing teeth to become lost! In fact, periodontal disease is the number one cause of adult tooth loss. Missing teeth may lead to complications and difficulties when eating or speaking, and may even cause people to develop an older appearance. If you have any questions about protecting your smile, then contact our team for a consultation or to schedule a checkup and cleaning. Our team will help you enjoy optimal oral health and protect your smile from serious periodontal health issues.
TALK TO SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO ABOUT IMPROVING PERIO HEALTH
At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, we would like to help people of all ages enjoy healthy smiles and gums free of inflammation and disease. If you have questions about our preventive treatment options, then you can reach our East El Paso dental practice on 10039 Dyer St., at 915-859-7000!