Periodontal

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is when bacteria is found in plaque it can produce toxins or poisons that irritate the gums, which may then cause the gums to turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this irritation occurs for a prolonged period of time, the gums will begin to separate from the tooth which will then cause pockets to form. As the periodontal disease begins to progress, the gum tissue that supports the tooth and the bones that hold the teeth in place will begin to deteriorate. This condition can lead to tooth loss if it is left untreated.

Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums which will gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. There are various disease entities that require different treatments. Plaque is the primary cause of gum disease in genetically prone individuals. Brushing and flossing your teeth daily is the best way to prevent a periodontal condition.

Why is oral hygiene so important?

Adults who are 35 or older are more likely to lose teeth to gum diseases (periodontal diseases), than to cavities. Periodontal diseases will affect three out of four adults over the course of their lifetime. The most effective way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is by have good tooth brushing and flossing techniques that are performed daily.

Bacterial plaque is what causes both periodontal disease and decay. Plaque is a colorless film, which binds to your teeth along the gum line. Plaque is constantly forming on your teeth and by thoroughly brushing and flossing your teeth you can remove these germs and prevent periodontal disease.

A number of factors can accelerate a periodontal disease. Periodontal diseases are mainly caused by the bacteria found in dental plaque. Dental plaque is a sticky colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. If it is not carefully removed by daily brushing and flossing the plaque can harden into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar).

Other important factors affecting the health of your gums include:

  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Stress
  • Clenching and grinding teeth
  • Medication
  • Poor nutrition

Preventing Gum Disease

The best way to prevent gum disease is proper daily brushing and flossing techniques. However, regular professional examinations and cleanings are just as important. Unfortunately, even with the most diligent home dental care, people still can develop some forms of periodontal disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to prevent its progress and the decay/loss of teeth in the future.

Scaling and Root Planing (SRP)

What is SRP?

SRP stands for Scaling and Root Planing. It is also referred to as “Deep Cleaning”. SRP helps to prevent serious gum disease by cleaning between the teeth as well as below the gum line. You will likely be put under local anesthesia to minimize your pain during this process. Some dentists may place packets between your teeth and gums to speed recovery time as well as prevent infection. If you do get these packets placed in your mouth, they will be removed in about 1 week after the procedure.

How long does it take?

Depending on the severity of your teeth, your SRP procedure may be broken up into different appointments.

ARESTIN®

Periodontal disease is a serious infection under your gumline. ARESTIN® (minocycline hydrochloride) is an antibiotic that kills the bacteria that causes the infection.

It’s placed directly in the infected areas—or “pockets”—in your gums. It’s applied right after scaling and root planing, the dental procedure that disrupts stubborn plaque and bacteria below your gum line—where brushing and flossing can’t reach.

ARESTIN® starts working quickly, right at the source of infection, and keeps fighting bacteria long after you leave the dental office.

ARESTIN® fights infection and inflammation for 30 days and provides significantly better results than scaling and root planing alone for up to 90 days.

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Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

9:30 am-7:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-6:30 pm

Wednesday:

9:30 am-6:30 pm

Thursday:

9:30 am-7:00 pm

Friday:

8:30 am-2:00 pm

Saturday:

8:30 am-2:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed