Understanding Periodontal Disease

Millions of people pay regular visits to their dentist each year to have their teeth cleaned and examined. The purpose of these check-ups is to maintain the overall health of the gums and teeth and to prevent more serious diseases. But, Suwanee dentists and dental hygienists also look for signs of gingivitis, a common bacterial infection that inflames the soft tissues (gums) inside the mouth.

Teeth are more than just bone; they contain nerve endings, bone marrow and blood vessels. The gums and bones surrounding and supporting teeth are alive, as well, and do respond to improper hygiene, disease and infection.

The roots of a tooth become vulnerable to bacterial infection and degeneration when the supporting bone and gum tissues are compromised.

Even if there aren’t always visible signs of infection, the whole area is likely to be sore to the touch, might bleed when teeth are brushed, and possible persistent bad breath, apart from the occasional reddening and swelling of the gums.

To arrest or treat gum disease it is imperative for the patient to understand the contributing factors to it and make appropriate changes. For example, for those who grind their teeth there are a number of protective guards and mouthpieces that can limit the damage sustained from such behaviors. Regardless, a course of therapy should be started right away to rectify the damage already sustained and prevent any further damage. A regular dental hygiene regimen is likely to be prescribed for daily plaque removal, involving brushing and flossing, as well as antibiotic rinses.

The next item to be addressed is the amount of tartar on the teeth, which must be removed professionally. If the bone has become vulnerable, special techniques like grafting and laser treatments can be used to lessen the gaps between teeth and gums. If a tooth is subsequently lost, the jaw will weaken and may result in other problems. While these procedures can involve considerable expense, they are worthwhile because left untreated periodontal disease might lead to more serious conditions like cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s.

Investment in the regular dental treatment and maintenance carried out by a qualified Suwanee dentist will result in better general wellbeing and good health.