We routinely evaluate your periodontal health and record pocket depths. Patients that are periodontally healthly will generally receive a regular prophy or cleaning. If you have gum pockets, bleeding,  bone loss or heavy tartar accumulation, you will need more attention. More frequent scaling and root planing may be necessary. There are several antibiotics that can be placed within the pocket to help shrink the pocket.

Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on areas of the teeth that are hard to reach and brush off.  This plaque becomes hard, like a barnacle on on the tooth, and becomes a nice little home for the bacteria.  This calculus (hardened plaque ) is what the Hygienist scales off.  The bacteria in the calculus produce toxins that cause inflamation and severly damage the gums. This will eventually cause the surrounding bone to erode and deepen the pockets. The general health of the person determines how severe the body reacts to the disease.

Periodontal  ( Gum ) diseases are classified by the severity of the disease.

GINGIVITIS:

The early stage of gum disease.  The gums become swollen and bleed easily.  At this stage, the disease is still reversible and can be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing.

PERIODONTITIS:

A more advanced form.  The gums and bone that support the tooth become seriously damaged.  When the gums and bone are infected, the teeth becomes loose, and the bacteria release toxins that cause a downward spiral.  Mouth odors become apparent and the teeth may start to become loose.

SIGN OF GUM DESEASE: 

gums that bleed easily.
Red, swollen, tender gums.
Gums that have pulled away from the teeth.
Persistent bad breath or bad taste..
Permanent teeth that are loose or separating.
Any change in the way your teeth come together.

NO SIGNS...IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THERE ARE NO APPARENT WARNING SIGNS: 

This is the reason that regular dental checkups are necessary and periodontal probings are very important. Treatment depends on the stage of the disease, its progression, your general health and your dedication to dental health.

GUM DISEASE AND NEW EVIDENCE: 
 
The relationship between gum disease and general health has been recognized for over 20 years.

Stroke…A study of 800 adult stroke victims, aged 25 to 50,  indicate that advanced gum disease is probably increasing the risk of stroke by over 50%.

Diabetes…Type II diabetics are 3 times more likely to develop gum disease. 20 times more likely if they smoke. Gum disease disrupts gylcemic control and slows down the healing process.

 Heart disease…many studies show a link between gum disease and heart disease and a fatal event may occur two times more often in individuals with severe gum disease. Several recent studies have linked poor oral health (gum disease) with low birth-weight babies, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. 

It has also been found to be associated with chronic conditions, including Cancer and HIV related infections and pneumonia.

Gum disease can be controlled and overcome with a team effort between the yourself, the Dentist, the Hygienist and possibly your physician.