Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is an infection of the structures surrounding the tooth including gums and bone.
When bacteria sits at the base of the gum pocket and is not removed, it can create an infection that just starts in the gum. This is a reversible condition known as gingivitis that can be treated with professional cleaning and improved home care techniques.
If this condition is not addressed and cured, it can progress into eating away at the bone structure surrounding your teeth. This condition then becomes irreversible as we, unfortunately, cannot grow backbone once it has been degraded from bacterial infection. Periodontal disease is defined by deep gum pockets (over 3 mm) with bleeding on stimulation and bone loss as seen on x-rays.
This is treated with a more intensive cleaning known as scaling and root planing, or “deep cleaning”. Follow-up maintenance of this disease includes more frequent cleanings, antibacterial mouthwash, and a big emphasis on between the teeth care.
It’s estimated almost half of adults 30 and older have gum disease! Things you can do to help prevent becoming part of the statistic is focusing on home care routines: brushing with an electric brush twice per day and doing some sort of in between the teeth cleaning (floss, water floss, floss pick) at least once per day, and of course staying current with your recommended professional cleanings with your favorite hygienists over here at Lotus Family Dental!