Non-Surgical Gum Therapy
Many people in the United States currently have some form of periodontal or gum disease and don’t even know it. The infection ranges from simple gum inflammation to a serious condition that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth are lost. In addition, this condition affects your total body health, contributing to heart disease, diabetes, premature labor in pregnant women and other serious illnesses.
Periodontal begins when naturally-occuring bacteria in our mouths are allowed to multiply on the teeth and gums. Eventually the bacteria forms a sticky, colorless film called plaque on the teeth and if it is not removed, it hardens to become calculus or tartar. The longer plaque and tartar are on teeth, the more harmful they become. The bacteria cause inflammation of the gums that is called “gingivitis.” In gingivitis, the gums become red, swollen and can bleed easily.
When gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to inflammation around the tooth called periodontitis; in periodontitis, gums pull away from the teeth and form spaces (called “pockets”) that become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. Bacterial toxins and the body’s natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed or may come out on their own.
The only reliable way to know if you have periodontal disease is to have a qualified hygiene care specialist complete a thorough examination. Our hygienists use a tiny ruler called a ‘probe’ to check for and measure any pockets. This test for pocket depth is usually painless. If the pockets are deep, gum therapy may be recommended.
Non-surgical gum therapy is done by the hygienist with special tools designed to remove plaque and tartar from under the gumline as well as getting rid of the rough spots on the tooth root where the germs gather. Because it is common to be numb, only half of the mouth is done at a time. You will be given prescriptions and written instructions on post-operative care after each session. Typically there is minimal discomfort after the numbing has worn off and most people are able to go about their normal activities.
Thanks to the many advanced treatments we offer, Keystone Dentistry can help you reverse and manage your periodontal disease. Highly skilled and friendly, our periodontal team’s dedication to extraordinary patient care and comfort ensures high-quality results with a gentle touch. Call to make an appointment to find out more about how our periodontal team at Keystone Dentistry can help keep your gums healthy.