Periodontal Maintenance & Therapy in Orlando

Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums, which gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. There are numerous disease entities requiring different treatment approaches. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease in genetically susceptible individuals. Daily brushing and flossing will prevent most periodontal conditions.

Why is oral hygiene so important?

Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases, (periodontal disease) than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily.

Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque is a colorless film, which sticks to your teeth at the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth. By thorough daily brushing and flossing, you can remove these germs and help prevent periodontal disease.

Periodontal diseases can be accelerated by several different factors. However, it is mainly caused by the bacteria found in dental plaque, a sticky colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. If not carefully removed by daily brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar).

Periodontal Disease

Bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons that irritate the gums, which 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. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss.

Preventing Gum Disease

Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is experienced by the majority of Americans at some point in their life. Once severe gum disease is present, it cannot be eradicated – but it can be managed with regular periodontal therapy. Dr. Patel will always check for periodontal disease during your visits to our Orlando dental office and will provide you with a treatment plan if necessary.

CANDIDATES FOR PERIODONTAL THERAPY:

The first signs of gingivitis include bleeding while brushing, and red, swollen gums. Bleeding gums are an early symptom that most people ignore! If left untreated, gingivitis can worsen, pockets can get deeper, and the disease will ultimately cause bone, gum, and tooth loss.

UNDERSTANDING POCKET DEPTH:

Pocket depth refers to the size of the space between gums and teeth. As periodontal disease advances, the gums pull away from the teeth and form crevices where infection can thrive. At your regular exams, we’ll measure pocket depth to assess your periodontal wellness. Healthy gums have a pocket depth of 1 to 3 millimeters. Patients with early-stage gum disease often have a pocket depth between 4 and 5 millimeters. Moderately diseased gums have a pocket depth of 6 to 7 millimeters, and patients with advanced gum disease have a pocket depth greater than 8 millimeters.

PERIODONTAL THERAPY PROCEDURES:

During your exam, Dr. Patel will assess your gum tissue. Healthy gums are firm, pink, and do not bleed; the bone is strong and supports the teeth. If you are diagnosed with gum disease, we’ll prescribe appropriate treatment and monitor your progress. Treatment for early-stage gum disease includes scaling and root planing, instructions on proper home-care techniques, and the use of an interdental toothbrush one or more times a day. Advanced cases of periodontal disease may require medication or surgery, but in most cases, we find that symptoms can be remedied with in-office and at-home treatment. Periodontal exams are vitally important to detect and treat gum disease early. Research has shown a link between gum disease and whole-body health complications, including heart attack, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and low-birth-weight babies. Think you may have gum disease? Contact us to request an appointment for a preventive exam and dental cleaning today!