What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, also simply called gum disease, is very common. In fact, the majority of people in the United States are affected in some way from this disease. It can be as simple as having gum inflammation or as serious as tooth decay, or even tooth loss.
The soft tissue around our teeth protect the bone that supports our teeth and when that tissue gets damaged with periodontal disease, extensive and irreversible bone loss can occur. Dr. Workman is experienced at treatment planning for periodontal disease and can provide you with periodontal disease treatment in Braselton, GA
One of the earliest stages of periodontal disease is gingivitis, which means ‘inflammation of the gums’. The symptoms of gingivitis include red and swollen gums that are prone to easy bleeding. It can be treated with common dental care practices such as brushing and flossing teeth and visiting the dentist regularly.
What Should I Do When I Have Periodontitis?
Gingivitis, if left untreated, becomes a more serious disease known as Periodontitis. When Periodontitis occurs, the gums may become inflamed and begin to pull away from the tooth. Once this pulling away of the tooth occurs, it causes pockets or open space between the tooth and gums. The open space lends itself to bacteria and other debris to enter into these pockets, which increases the severity of the disease. As plaque and bacteria remain stuck on the tooth, this causes a hardening of the plaque and it becomes calculus also known as tartar. To fight the disease and bacteria, our immune system will naturally fight these issues and release disease fighting toxins. Once these toxins are released, it can begin to erode the bone and connectives tissues associated with holding our teeth in place. Once at this point, teeth are likely to fall out or have to be extracted or removed.
Treatment and Prevention:
Prevention is the always the best treatment plan, but catching periodontal disease in the early stages allows for the disease to be reversed. The most effective way to fight against gingivitis is through routine dental care such as flossing, brushing, and rinsing twice or more daily. It is also very important to visit our dentist in Braselton on a regular basis to maintain healthy preventative maintenance.
Healthy Gums Is Our Goal:
Braselton Smile Studio's top priority for our patients is to get them to a point of healthy teeth and gums. We serve the surrounding areas of Braselton, Georgia. Contact us with any quesitons about your gum health.
