What Is Periodontal Care?
Periodontal care encompasses a range of treatments and practices designed to prevent, diagnose, and treat conditions affecting the gums and surrounding tissues. From gum disease prevention to advanced treatments, our experienced team at Fox View Dental provides the technology and techniques needed to address various periodontal concerns effectively.
Symptoms of Gum Problems
- Gingivitis: This is the earliest stage of gum disease. Common symptoms include redness, inflammation, and bleeding of the gums, especially during brushing or flossing. Gums may appear swollen and tender. Bad breath (halitosis) is also a potential sign.
- Periodontitis: If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can progress into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. Symptoms include persistent bad breath, receding gums, pockets forming between teeth and gums, gum sensitivity, and visible pus around the teeth and gums. Teeth may also become loose due to weakened supporting structures.
- Gum Recession: Receding gums expose more of the tooth’s root, making teeth appear longer. This can lead to increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. You might also notice a notch forming at the gumline, where the enamel meets the exposed root.
- Gum Abscess: A gum abscess is a pocket of pus that forms due to infection. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, redness, and a small bump (pimple-like) on the gums. You might experience throbbing pain around the affected area.
- Gum Sensitivity: Sensitive gums can manifest as discomfort or pain when eating hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods. Gums might also feel tender when brushing or flossing.
- Gum Bleeding: Bleeding gums can signal various issues, such as gingivitis, improper brushing or flossing techniques, or even certain medical conditions. If your gums bleed regularly when brushing or flossing, it’s essential to seek dental advice.
- Gum Swelling: Swollen gums are often a sign of inflammation caused by gum disease or infection. Swelling can make it difficult to brush and floss properly, worsening the condition.
- Gum Discoloration: Gums that are darker or lighter in color than usual might indicate underlying health issues or genetic factors. Dark gums can also result from smoking, certain medications, or excessive melanin production.
Recognizing these symptoms and seeking timely professional help from Dr. Chad is essential for maintaining optimal oral health. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are key to preventing and addressing gum problems.
Periodontal Care Procedures at Fox View Dental
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from above and below the gum line (scaling) and smoothing the tooth’s root surfaces to discourage further bacterial growth (root planing). It helps treat mild to moderate gum disease and prevents progression.
Dental Implants
If you’ve experienced tooth loss due to advanced gum disease, dental implants provide a permanent solution. Implants replace the tooth root and offer a stable foundation for a crown or prosthetic tooth. This replacement protects your gum and bones from receding.
Maintenance and Follow-up Care
Regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and gum maintenance appointments are essential to monitor your periodontal health and prevent further issues. Dr. Chad will recommend a personalized care plan based on your specific needs. Scheduling these appointments every six months can help protect your teeth from future dental issues.
At-Home Periodontal Care
Your journey to optimal periodontal health doesn’t end with our treatments. We empower you with the knowledge and tools to maintain your oral well-being at home. Here are some essential tips:
- Effective Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to remove plaque and prevent gum disease.
- Balanced Diet: A diet rich in nutrients supports gum health and overall oral well-being.
- Regular Dental Visits: Schedule routine check-ups to monitor your periodontal health and address any concerns promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
