Periodontal Therapy
Wyoming, Michigan
Treatments
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Did you know that periodontal or gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults? The progressive condition not only affects your oral health but can also impact your overall health. That’s why our team at Craft Dentistry emphasizes the prevention, treatment, and management of periodontal disease. We are all about maintaining healthy smiles that last.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It usually develops due to poor oral hygiene habits that result in plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, building up on the teeth and gum line and hardening to tartar. If not treated, the condition may progress and spread to the surrounding bone, leading to tooth pain, loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss.
Aside from poor oral hygiene, risk factors for gum disease include smoking, hormonal changes, genetics, certain medications, and health conditions such as diabetes. The good news is that early treatment can prevent the devastating effects of periodontal disease on your oral health.
Periodontal Disease and Your Overall Health
Although preventable, gum disease continues to affect more than half of Americans over age 30. Untreated periodontitis can lead to bacteria entering your bloodstream, resulting in serious health problems. Researchers have linked periodontal disease to an increased risk of stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and more.
What Are the Signs of Gum Disease?
Tell-tale signs of the earliest stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, include red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums. As the condition progresses, the gums may start pulling away from the teeth, making them appear longer. Patients also report persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth, pain when chewing, tooth sensitivity, loose teeth, and tooth loss.
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
The first line of defense against periodontal disease is a non-surgical deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. The treatment involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and under the gum line, then cleaning and smoothing the tooth roots to encourage gum tissue healing and reattachment. Scaling and root planing coupled with good oral hygiene usually reverses gingivitis and slows or even prevents the progression of periodontitis.
At Craft Dentistry, we also offer an innovative, minimally invasive gum treatment known as Perio Protect. The highly effective gum therapy uses custom trays to apply medication deep under your gums to fight the infection. Wearing your Perio Protect trays for just 15 minutes a day helps control the infection and prevent it from entering your bloodstream. Better yet, it helps freshen your breath and whiten your teeth, brightening your smile. Perio Protect can enhance the outcomes of scaling and root planing, preventing the need for periodontal surgery in many cases.
Maintaining Your Gum Health
After treatment, patients typically require periodontal maintenance visits every 3-4 months. These visits include thorough dental cleanings, evaluating your gum health, and measuring the depth of your gum pockets. Aside from treatment, it is essential to maintain meticulous oral hygiene care, including regular brushing and flossing. Together, we can prevent your gum disease from progressing and causing damage to your oral structures.
Periodontal Therapy Near Me
If you haven’t seen a dentist in the past six months, contact Craft Dentistry to schedule a dental exam and cleaning. Our preventive services will lower your risk of periodontal disease. If, however, we detect signs of gum infection or inflammation, we will start prompt periodontal treatment to maintain your gum health. We invite you to call us at 616-538-4330 to schedule your visit or request one online today!
Proudly serving patients in Wyoming, MI, and the neighboring communities.
Change Your Smile, Change Your Life
We understand that your needs come last after serving everyone around you because that’s just how big your heart is. Well, now it’s YOUR turn! You deserve an unforgettable experience and we’re here to give that to you.