Periodontal (Gum) Therapy

Your gums perform an important function in your body. They protect and provide support for the teeth, as well as provide blood flow to the jaw bone and tooth structures.

Did you know?

Periodontal (gum) disease is a progressive disease that begins when bacteria penetrate and grow beneath the gums. As the disease spreads, gum tissue and eventually bone become infected and are destroyed.

An estimated 75 percent of Americans have some form of periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease is serious problem.

If left untreated, periodontal disease can break down enough bone and gum tissue to cause teeth in the affected area to become loose and eventually fall out.

Periodontal disease is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults.

Stress, smoking and poor nutrition can be contributing factors to gum disease.

Recent studies also indicate that there is a link between the bacteria that cause periodontal disease and increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and preterm low birth weight.

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Common signs of periodontal disease

Patients typically experience bleeding and swollen gums, persistent bad breath, and gum recession.

At your dental checkup, we will measure the space, or "pocket" between your teeth and gums.
Combined with diagnostic dental X-rays, this process will help reveal any deep pockets, an indication of areas of gum disease in need of treatment.

If periodontal disease is present, your Smile Center dentist may recommend non-surgical gum therapy.

Our hygienists provide treatment of periodontal disease in our office under the direction of your dentist.

We being by making you comfortable; the doctor will numb the area with local anesthetic, and the hygienist will treat the areas beneath the gum line where you cannot clean.

At the end of your visit, we will give you helpful instructions on how to promote healing and avoid re-occurrence of the infection.

We sometimes work with a gum specialist, or periodontist to maintain an assertive approach to this detrimental disease.

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Stay in control of your oral health! If you believe that you or a loved may have periodontal disease, contact us to schedule a complete dental examination and periodontal assessment. You'll be glad you did!