If tartar deposits build up on the teeth, they can harbor bacteria next to the gum, which can result in gum disease. Inadequate cleaning and upkeep of oral hygiene can be a major contributing factor to gum disease. Once a bacterial infection establishes itself, it attacks the gums, bone, and ligaments that support the teeth and jaw. Left untreated, gum disease can be the root cause of bleeding, swollen, and receding gums as well as bad breath and periodontal disease, which can result in tooth loss.

Regular dental visits are your best defense

Early detection and treatment of gum disease is the most effective way of alleviating the problem and preventing long term or extensive damage to the mouth. Therefore, regular dental checkups are vital in preventing gum disease.

Your daily oral hygiene is also key

Regular dental checkups and professional cleaning, combined with consistent daily hygiene, can effectively prevent and treat gum disease. Brushing twice and flossing at least once a day can help to combat the build-up of plaque and the gradual hardened tartar that accumulates around the teeth and gums.

We can treat severe gum disease

If we do see signs of early gum disease, our professional staff provides scaling and the careful cleaning of the root surfaces to remove plaque and bacterial toxins within the deeper parts of the periodontal pockets. We first use an ultrasonic instrument, which uses vibrations to remove larger pieces of tartar. Then we use smaller, hand instruments to scrape the remaining tartar. This is usually a painless procedure and effectively alleviates the concern of gum disease.

If you do have infected gums, we can also provide topical antibiotic treatment, applying the antibiotics directly to the gum surface. This treatment is painless. The antibiotics are composed of time-released granules that are released over a period of weeks. We can also prescribe oral antibiotics for gum disease.

In more extreme cases, where the gum tissue surrounding the teeth has become sufficiently infected by periodontal disease, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected area, and restorative methods may be needed.

Let us restore your dental health

In order to maintain good oral health, you need to combine consistent, at home practices with regular professional dental cleanings and check-ups. Together we can help your teeth and gums stay healthy for a lifetime! For more information or to make an appointment, please feel free to contact us.