Gum disease is the single most prevalent disease in America, affecting more people than heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s, and cancer combined. About 80% of the population has some form of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, periodontitis (the advanced form), and gingivitis (the mild form).
Periodontal Therapy
Periodontal Therapy
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What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the gums and bone that support teeth. It usually starts early in life and then progresses as a person ages. It all starts when plaque hardens into tartar (also called calculus) below the gum line. This irritates vulnerable soft tissues, and infection can set in. Combined with decaying food particles lodged between teeth and bacteria emitted by plaque, the infection can spread quickly. Symptoms are so mild in the early phase, many patients don’t recognize them: red, tender, and swollen gums, as well as bleeding when brushing teeth.
Gum disease treatment is often necessary as the condition progresses. Gums recede from teeth and pockets of bacteria form, which can destroy gum tissue and bone, causing tooth and bone loss.
Recent research reveals that gum disease is linked to increased risk for major overall health problems, including but not limited to: stroke, heart disease, respiratory problems, osteoporosis, diabetes complications, low birth weight, and most recently, dementia. Because of these findings, research continues. We may learn much more in the next few years.
It makes perfect sense, though, that gum disease is linked to overall health problems. Gum disease treatment is vital, because everything that enters or is present in the mouth has access to the whole body. The mouth is like a portal to the body. That’s why regular checkups and hygiene visits are vital to not only oral health, but also to overall health.
Unfortunately, gum disease is not curable. However, we can detect early warning signs of gum disease at your regular dental checkups. At this stage, prevention might be as simple as changing your brushing technique, improving your flossing routine, or changing the products you use for oral care at home.
We offer a range of gum disease treatments in Chattanooga, TN, including:
Scaling – to remove hardened plaque from below the gum line
Root Planing – to reduce rough areas on teeth roots
Antibiotic Therapy – to battle infection
Surgery – advanced cases may require the care of a periodontist, in which case we will refer you to a trusted colleague
Also, expect to attend more frequent hygiene visits so that we can monitor your condition and make sure that recovery is on track. Contact Chattanooga Dental Arts today to schedule your first appointment with our doctors.
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