Periodontal care is an essential service that ensures the health and longevity of your gums and teeth. At Chattanooga Dental Arts in Chattanooga, TN we specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing gum disease to maintain your oral health. Don’t wait to address your periodontal needs – contact us today to schedule your first appointment with our trusted providers.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums and bone that support teeth. It often begins early in life and progresses with age. Plaque hardens into tartar (calculus) below the gum line, irritating soft tissues and leading to infection. This infection can spread quickly due to decaying food particles and bacteria emitted by plaque. Early symptoms include red, tender, and swollen gums and bleeding when brushing. As the disease advances, gums recede, pockets of bacteria form, and gum tissue and bone can be destroyed, potentially leading to tooth and bone loss.
Why Is Gum Disease So Serious?
Recent research indicates a link between gum disease and significant health issues such as stroke, heart disease, respiratory problems, osteoporosis, diabetes complications, low birth weight, and dementia. This connection underscores the importance of treating gum disease to maintain overall health. Since the mouth serves as a portal to the body, regular checkups and hygiene visits are crucial for both oral and general health.
Is Gum Disease Curable?
Gum disease is not curable, but it can be managed effectively. Early detection at regular dental checkups is key. Prevention at this stage might involve changing your brushing technique, improving your flossing routine, or using different oral care products. We offer a range of treatments to manage gum disease in Chattanooga, TN:
- Scaling: Removes hardened plaque from below the gum line
- Root planing: Reduces rough areas on teeth roots to prevent bacteria buildup
- Antibiotic therapy: Targets and battles infection
- Surgery: For advanced cases, we may refer you to a trusted periodontist
Additionally, we recommend more frequent hygiene visits to monitor your condition and ensure recovery is on track.
What To Expect During Periodontal Treatment
When you come to Chattanooga Dental Arts for periodontal care, you can expect a thorough and compassionate approach. During your initial visit, our team will conduct a comprehensive examination, including measuring the depth of pockets around your teeth and assessing the condition of your gums. This allows us to determine the extent of the disease and develop a personalized treatment plan.
If scaling and root planing are recommended, these procedures are typically performed over several visits to ensure your comfort and the best possible outcome. Antibiotic therapy may be used alongside these treatments to reduce bacterial infection. In more severe cases, surgical interventions may be necessary, and we will guide you through each step, providing referrals to trusted periodontists when needed.
Maintaining Your Oral Health Post-Treatment
Post-treatment care is crucial for managing gum disease and preventing its recurrence. Our team will provide you with detailed instructions on maintaining good oral hygiene at home, including proper brushing and flossing techniques. We may also recommend specific dental products that can help keep your gums healthy.
Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor your progress and catch any signs of gum disease early. During these visits, we will assess the health of your gums, perform professional cleanings, and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Lifestyle Tips For Healthy Gums
In addition to professional periodontal care, adopting certain lifestyle habits can significantly impact your gum health:
- Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease and can hinder the healing process.
- Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports gum health. Foods high in vitamin C and calcium are particularly beneficial.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, keeping your mouth clean.
- Stress management: High stress levels can affect your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections, including gum disease.
Why Choose Us For Your Periodontal Care?
At Chattanooga Dental Arts, our experienced team is dedicated to providing exceptional periodontal care. Our dentists are committed to offering comprehensive care tailored to your unique needs. Our practice in Chattanooga, TN, is equipped with the latest technology and techniques to ensure you receive the best possible treatment.
Choosing our practice means you will benefit from our expertise, compassionate approach, and commitment to your overall health. We understand the critical link between oral health and general well-being, and we strive to provide care that supports both. Our goal is to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile and a higher quality of life.
