Periodontics
Do your gums bleed when you brush your teeth? If you have excessive bleeding and pain in your gum tissues, you may have problems. Periodontics involves the teeth’ supporting structures and tissues, such as gums. Inflammatory disease can destroy the gums and other tooth-supporting structures. At Ackerman Towson Family Dentistry, we specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating all dental issues and periodontics.
What is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a severe gum infection that damages the surrounding tissues. Without treatment, it can cause serious health complications. If it continues to spread, it can lead to tooth loss and destroy the bone that supports your teeth.
Periodontitis is very common for people between the ages of 15 to 35 but can be avoided by following the simple steps of preventative dentistry. Even if you have already experienced or are experiencing periodontitis, don’t worry; it isn’t too late for you. We have procedures to correct periodontal neglect if you catch it in the beginning stages.
What Are the Symptoms?
The symptoms of periodontitis include pain, redness, and bleeding in the gums. You can usually tell when something is wrong with your teeth or gums because they will be severely sensitive. If something doesn’t look and feel right, it might be a good idea to come in for an evaluation.
If you have had periodontitis for an extended period, you may be suffering from gum recession or loose teeth.
What Causes Periodontitis?
Did you know that you shouldn’t only brush your teeth? It would be best if you also brush your gums. Doing so and regular checkups with your dentist can help prevent periodontitis.
Improper or infrequent brushing and flossing can cause excess plaque and tartar to build up. Untreated buildup can progress down between your gums and teeth, a complex area to reach and clean. Once the buildup mineralizes beneath the gums, you can no longer treat it by brushing. It will need more severe and extensive treatment.
Advanced Periodontitis Stages Include:
- Gum recession
Your tooth is more sensitive the closer it is to the root. As gums can recede, tooth-sensitivity increases.
- Gums are not adhering to your teeth
This happens when a pocket forms where more plaque and bacteria buildup. This causes tooth decay, loosening teeth, and affects the jaw bone structure. Gums will start to detach from the teeth.
- Compromised jaw bone structure
Once the infection reaches an advanced stage, it attacks the bone structure. Teeth loosen and decay.
Reach Out to Ackerman Towson Family Dentistry Before it’s Too Late
Once periodontitis reaches a particular stage, your dentist cannot cure it. We can slow it down and control it. It’s essential that you set an appointment as soon as possible. In the beginning stage of periodontitis, we can completely cure it with deep, professional cleanings. Plaque and buildup are removed to promote healing.
There Are Many Ways We Can Help
We specialize in prevention first, then diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options include:
Deep cleanings are often the best first step for treatment. After treatment, your mouth will feel cleaner, and your teeth and gums will feel and look better.
Periodontitis might mean some necessary tooth extraction. Implants provide a support structure for new prosthetic teeth which replace the extracted teeth. It is essential to get your periodontitis cured early to prevent possible bone deterioration. Implants require a dense bone structure for a foundation.
The Sooner You Start Treatment, the Better
Dr. Ackerman and Dr. Towson are here to help you. Call to arrange a consultation today. We’ll help you prevent periodontitis. If your gums are already in advanced stages, we’ll get you the quality care you need.
Beautiful teeth make a happy smile, but don’t forget your gums!