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Information is always emerging about how your oral health affects your overall well being. For example, we now understand that periodontal health is directly related to other health concerns such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, and vice versa. This is because the bacteria that causes the inflammation that contributes to these concerns also causes periodontal (gum) disease. Your Austin dentist explains how preventive dentistry can help protect your overall health.

THE INS AND OUTS OF GUM DISEASE

Gum disease is essentially an infection of the support system for your teeth, which is your gums and jawbone. This occurs when excessive plaque buildup causes your gums to separate from your teeth creating pockets that allow bacteria below the gum line. It’s tricky to diagnose this condition on your own because there’s typically not much pain or very many symptoms associated with it at first, and this is why consistent preventive appointments are so important.

If gum disease is not managed, it will eventually destroy your soft tissue and bone and will result in tooth loss. Did you know that gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults? More than half of adults over thirty years old are affected by it in some form.

HOW IS PERIODONTAL DISEASE TREATED?

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, and during this time you might notice that your gums look red and swollen, or they bleed when you brush. Chronic bad breath that doesn’t go away with brushing is also another telltale sign of gum disease.

This is the ideal time to contact your dentist in Oak Hill since gingivitis can often be successfully managed with a thorough cleaning and changes to your home care routine. In some cases this is enough to reverse it and prevent it from causing further damage.

MANAGING PERIODONTITIS

Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gum disease in which the damage has started to occur. If you’re suffering from periodontitis, you may notice that your gums have pulled away from your teeth creating recession. Your teeth may also begin to feel mobile in this stage.

We will perform scaling and root planing, which is a deep cleaning that reaches below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar buildup to begin the healing process. There is no cure for gum disease, however with additional cleanings throughout the year we can typically help you keep this condition under control.

CONTACT THE DENTAL CENTRE TO LEARN MORE

Preventive dentistry is truly the foundation for optimum oral health and we’re here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy and beautiful smile for a lifetime. Give us a call today to schedule your next appointment.