Periodontal Care
Periodontal Health
Procedure Description
Periodontal health focuses on preventing and treating gum disease and maintaining healthy gum tissues and supporting bone structures. the dentist and his associate dentists perform comprehensive periodontal evaluations, measuring pocket depths, assessing gum tissue health, and checking for bone loss. Treatment ranges from professional cleanings and improved home care for early gingivitis to deep cleanings (scaling and root planing), antibiotic therapy, and ongoing periodontal maintenance for more advanced conditions.
Indications
Periodontal care is essential for anyone experiencing signs of gum disease or at risk for developing it:
Bleeding Gums
Gums that bleed during brushing, flossing, or eating indicate inflammation and require attention.
Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums
Early warning signs of gingivitis that can progress to serious periodontitis if untreated.
Persistent Bad Breath
Chronic halitosis often results from bacterial buildup associated with gum disease.
Receding Gums
Gums pulling away from teeth, exposing roots and creating pockets where bacteria collect.
Loose or Shifting Teeth
Advanced gum disease destroys supporting bone and tissue, causing tooth mobility and eventual loss.
Note: Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Early detection and treatment can reverse gingivitis and prevent progression to periodontitis.
Benefits
Prevents Tooth Loss
Healthy gums and supporting bone are essential for keeping your natural teeth throughout life.
Improves Overall Health
Gum disease is linked to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and other systemic health problems.
Eliminates Discomfort
Treatment relieves pain, sensitivity, and inflammation associated with gum disease.
Freshens Breath
Removing bacteria and infection eliminates the primary cause of chronic bad breath.
Preserves Your Smile
Prevents the gum recession and tooth loss that dramatically affect appearance.
Alternatives
Ignoring Symptoms
Leads to tooth loss, systemic health problems, and expensive restorative treatment
Home Care Only
Cannot remove hardened tartar or treat established infection
Over-the-Counter Products
Mouthwashes and toothpastes help but cannot treat moderate to advanced disease
Authored By
Dr. Vahag Mehrabian
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by bacterial plaque that accumulates on teeth and along the gumline. If not removed through proper brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), which can only be removed by professional cleaning. Bacteria produce toxins that inflame gums (gingivitis) and, if untreated, progress to infection of deeper structures (periodontitis). Risk factors include smoking, genetics, diabetes, stress, and certain medications.
Can gum disease be reversed?
Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) can be completely reversed with professional cleaning and improved home care. However, once it progresses to periodontitis with bone loss, the damage is permanent. The good news is that even advanced gum disease can be managed and stabilized with appropriate treatment and maintenance, preventing further destruction and tooth loss.
How is gum disease treated?
Treatment depends on disease severity. Gingivitis is treated with professional cleaning and improved home care. Periodontitis requires scaling and root planing (deep cleaning below the gumline) to remove tartar and bacteria. Advanced cases may need antibiotic therapy or periodontal surgery. All patients require ongoing periodontal maintenance appointments (typically every 3-4 months) to keep disease under control.
Is gum disease related to other health conditions?
Yes! Research shows strong links between gum disease and systemic health. Periodontal bacteria can enter the bloodstream, contributing to heart disease, stroke, and respiratory infections. Diabetes and gum disease have a two-way relationship, each making the other worse. Gum disease is also associated with pregnancy complications, rheumatoid arthritis, and other conditions. Maintaining healthy gums benefits your entire body.
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