There are many different oral health conditions that could potentially affect your smile throughout your life. Some are minor, such as tooth stains, and can be corrected with simple, non-invasive treatment. Others, however, can be much more serious – such as periodontal disease, the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the U.S. At our Auburn Hills, MI, dental office, we can help you address and control your gum disease with customized periodontal care and help you avoid some of the consequences that can arise from the disease.
A quick look at gum disease development
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is largely the result of harmful oral bacteria being allowed to overwhelm your gum line. The plaque and tartar these microbes form allow them to work their way underneath your gums to settle on the surfaces of your teeth roots. Before long, they can infect your gums (a condition known as gingivitis) and lead to redness, swelling, irritation, and bleeding in your gums. As the condition progresses, the damage will grow worse and can erode the supportive structures of your teeth by the time you seek treatment.
What periodontal care involves
Periodontal care is the process of treating your gingivitis or gum disease and helping you protect your smile from the destruction it can cause. The specifics of your treatment will depend on the extent of your gum disease. For instance, when gingivitis is still in its earliest stages, a periodontal cleaning (or scaling and root planing) can remove the bacteria from your teeth roots so the infection in your gums can subside. If your condition is more advanced, then scaling and root planing may be followed by an ongoing periodontal maintenance plan to keep the disease under control.
What can happen if you wait too long
One of the most effective ways to prevent gum disease, or catch gingivitis in its earliest stage, is to stick to a schedule of regular dental exams and cleanings. Even if you miss the signs at first, your dentist will be able to detect the symptoms of gingivitis during your professional exam. However, if you skip your checkup and cleaning appointment, then you may give gingivitis and gum disease a chance to progress and become serious enough to make tooth loss a significant threat.
Learn more about the importance of gum care
Caring for your gums is an important of preventive dental care, and if a problem arises, periodontal treatment could be vital to maintaining your healthy smile. To learn more, schedule an appointment or initial consultation by calling Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI today at (248) 852-1820.
