Periodontal Carephoto_dental_006

Periodontal (the tissues surrounding the teeth) treatment is necessary when various conditions affect the health of your gums and the regions of your jawbone which hold your teeth in place. Retaining your teeth is directly dependent on proper periodontal care and maintenance. Healthy gums and bone support your teeth and enhance the appearance of your teeth, like a frame around a beautiful painting.

When your gums become unhealthy, they can either recede or become swollen and red. In later stages, the supporting bone is destroyed and your teeth will shift, loosen, or fall out. These changes not only affect your ability to chew and speak; they also spoil your smile.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums, which gradually destroy the supportive bone and tissue around your natural teeth. Dental plaque and calculus is the primary cause of gum disease in individuals. Bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons, which irritate the gums. They may cause them to turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth, causing pockets (spaces) to form. Plaque can also harden into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar). This can occur both above and below the gum line.  If calculus isn’t removed, the tissue and bone close to that calculus will breakdown.

As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss. With periodontal disease, bleeding, redness and swelling may not be present. Further, pain is usually not associated with periodontal disease until late in the disease process. This disease damages the teeth, gum and jawbone of more than 80% of Americans by age 45, so seeing a dentist regularly and maintaining a good home care regiment is extremely important.