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Hours: Monday to Friday 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Periodontal (gum) Therapy
What is it?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It attacks just below the gum line, where it causes the break down of the attachment of the tooth and its supporting tissues. As the tissues are damaged, the affected gum area develops into a pocket; the more severe the disease, the greater the depth of the pocket.
The two major stages of periodontal disease are gingivitis, the milder stage, and periodontitis, the advanced stage. Gingivitis is a milder and reversible stage that affects only the gums. If gingivitis is not taken care of properly, it may lead to the more serious and destructive condition of periodontitis.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Smoking: Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors associated with the development of periodontitis. Smoking can also lower the chances of success of some treatments.
- Stress: Several research studies have demonstrated that stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection including periodontal diseases.
- Pregnancy and Puberty in women/girls: These changes can make gums more sensitive and make it easier for gingivitis to develop.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes are at higher risk for developing infections, including periodontal disease.
- Medications: Some drugs, such as anti-depressants and some heart medicines, can affect oral health. Such medications can lessen the flow of saliva, which acts as a protective barrier for teeth and gums.
- Diseases: Diseases like cancer or AIDS and their treatments can also affect the health of gums.
- Genetic: Some people are more prone to severe periodontal disease than others.
What are your treatment options?
If you are suffering from Gingivitis, which is indicated by your gums becoming red, swollen, with bleeding while brushing, you have good news. Gingivitis is reversible fairly easily, with professional treatment and good at home oral care.
If you're diagnosed with periodontitis, at James E. Johnson DDS, & Associates P.C. we have experienced dentists to help you with your treatment options. You may need periodontal surgery if we determine that the tissue around your teeth is unhealthy and cannot be repaired with a non-surgical treatment.
Prevention
You can prevent periodontal disease by practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly. Daily brushing and flossing, when done correctly, can help to remove most of the plaque from your teeth. Professional cleanings by your dentist will keep plaque under control in places that are harder for a toothbrush or floss to reach.
We recommend you see your dentist every six months for your routine cleaning. If you already have gum disease you should visit more often. We can work with you to determine how frequently you need to schedule your dental appointments with us.