Gum disease treatments, sometimes known as periodontal care, is one of the most critical ways we care for your body while caring for your mouth. Even Whoopi Goldberg knows how important gum health is.
Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss and the bacteria that cause this dental disease have been linked to serious health problems such as heart problems, poor circulation leading to diabetic concerns, strokes, premature and low birth weight babies and even cancer. When we treat gum disease, our concern is for your overall health, not just your teeth.
Symptoms of Periodontal Problems
There often are no symptoms of gum disease. Gums can recede, leaving teeth vulnerable to decay, abscesses and tooth loss – all without any bleeding or tenderness. But many people have at least minor symptoms, which can include the following:
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Puffiness or tenderness of the gums
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Loose-feeling teeth
Oral DNA Screening
This discovery is so important that even the National Institute of Health (NIH) and other research facilities are aggressively pursuing this link to facilitate earlier oral cancer and gum disease detection and more predictable early treatment. We also use it to screen for inflammatory disorders.
This clinical test provides accurate information about both oral cancer susceptibility and the pathogenic bacteria and your genetic susceptibility to these bacteria for customized care – many times before you even need it.
Gum disease is even more serious and aggressive in people who have diabetes. Millions of adult Americans are diabetic or pre-diabetic and don’t even know it. If we detect signs of gum disease in your mouth, you and Dr. Huisman may discuss whether a simple blood test to screen for diabetes is appropriate for you. A healthy mouth and a healthy body – they go hand in hand.
Our Advanced Periodontal Treatments
A variety of new technologies and techniques make the treatment of periodontal disease more thorough and comfortable than ever before, even at an advanced stage, to help you keep your teeth and improve your health. We offer laser treatment for treating gum disease with tremendous accuracy, speed, and comfort. Want to learn more? Click Laser Dentistry.
Scaling
Periodontal disease presents itself with a build-up of bacteria in the pockets in your gums, causing plaque and tartar. One of the first steps in cleaning and healing your gums is to remove the buildup. We use the most gentle and effective methods for removing calculus and harmful bacteria below the gum line.
Custom Antibiotics
If we detect infection, a course of oral antibiotics may be prescribed to further combat the infection. Once the source of infection has been removed, your gums will begin to heal and tighten around your teeth.
Home Therapies
Good oral hygiene is important. You should brush at least two to three times a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Daily flossing, prescription strength fluoride toothpastes, fluoride rinses, and an oral irrigator also are important.
