CLINTON, WI - FAMILY DENTISTRY WITH A GENTLE TOUCH
Periodontal Services
Periodontal or gum disease is a serious gum infection affecting millions worldwide. Left untreated, the chronic condition can cause irreversible damage to the bone and tissues supporting the teeth, leading to loose teeth over time. Periodontal disease continues to be one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults.
Clinton Family Dental is pleased to offer periodontal services personalized to your unique needs. Our goal is to manage your gum disease and prevent its devastating impacts on your smile. You can count on Dr. Jacobson and her team for exceptional service with a gentle touch.
What Are the Causes of Periodontal Disease?
Poor oral hygiene is the leading cause of gum disease. If not removed daily by brushing and flossing, plaque can harden to tartar and build up on or below the gum line, irritating the gums and leading to inflammation and infection. Additional risk factors include diabetes, smoking, misaligned teeth, aging, genetics, hormonal changes, and certain medications.
What Are the Symptoms of Periodontal Disease?
Symptoms of periodontal disease include the following:
- Visible plaque and tartar buildup
- Red, swollen gums
- Gums that bleed during brushing and flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, and acidic foods and drinks
- Pain when you brush your teeth or floss
- Receding gums may leave the teeth looking longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in the bite or how the teeth fit together
- Changes in how partial dentures fit
- Tooth loss
What Are the Health Effects of Periodontal Disease?
The effects of periodontal disease go beyond your oral health. In addition to causing gum inflammation, tooth mobility, and potential tooth loss, periodontal disease can increase the risk of serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and even pregnancy complications.
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
If you have signs of gingivitis or periodontal disease, we may recommend a deep dental cleaning, a procedure known as scaling and root planing. The non-surgical periodontal treatment involves gently removing plaque and tartar from above and below your gum line and cleaning and smoothing your tooth roots. That encourages healing and gum tissue reattachment.
After gum disease treatment, we typically recommend periodontal maintenance visits every 3-4 months. We will clean your teeth and evaluate your gum health to ensure the condition does not progress. You will also need to maintain meticulous oral hygiene practices at home, including regular brushing and flossing. Our goal is to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible.
Can Gum Disease Be Cured?
The early stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, is often reversed with the help of dental cleanings and meticulous home oral hygiene practices. If the condition progresses to a more advanced stage, known as periodontitis, it can only be managed. However, a deep dental cleaning, excellent oral hygiene, and periodontal maintenance can stabilize the condition and prevent further damage to your teeth, gums, and oral structures.
Are you ready to learn more about the prevention, treatment, or management of periodontal disease?
Periodontal Services Near Me in Clinton, WI
The best treatment for periodontal disease is to prevent it to begin with. One of the best ways to keep your gums healthy is to visit Clinton Family Dental for your twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings. If Dr. Jacobson sees signs of periodontal disease, she will intervene right away to restore your gum health. The sooner you get treatment, the better the outcome!
Give us a call at 608-676-5415 or contact us online to see how we can help.
We look forward to caring for all your dental needs.