It is estimated that over half of adults over thirty have some level of periodontal disease, from the first stage of gingivitis to more severe forms of this progressive disease. Without general dentistry treatments, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss, and put you at higher risk for cardiovascular problems, certain cancers and type 2 diabetes. Our team at Lufkin Family Dental provides periodontal therapies that can treat gum disease and even reverse the effects.
The bacteria that cause gum disease are constantly fighting to grow and accumulate in your mouth. Regular brushing and flossing can remove most of the plaque that is formed from these bacteria, but that alone is not always enough. If left to progress, the plaque forms tartar and the gums can become infected, leading to tissue breakdown, bone loss and possible transfer of these bacteria into your bloodstream. Treatment can stop the infection and help restore gum health to prevent tooth loss and other health issues.
One form of periodontal treatment is deep cleanings and medication to stop the infection in the gums. Our hygienist can perform deep cleanings to remove tartar and plaque from the teeth. When combined with special mouthwash to fight infection and other medications, this can often stop the early stages of periodontal disease.
If periodontal disease has caused the gums to recede, large pockets can form around the teeth, leading to more bacteria, plaque and tartar forming below the gum surface. To treat and stop the infection, the tartar must be removed so the gums can heal. Scaling and root planing is an effective form of treatment we use to help restore gum health in our patients in the later stages of periodontal disease.
If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, contact Lufkin Family Dental today to schedule an appointment. We can help stop the progression and with treatment, can help restore healthy gum tissue to prevent tooth loss and other health issues.