Gum Disease Gum disease (or periodontitis) is an infection and inflammation of the gums which gradually destroys the supporting structures of the natural teeth.Gum disease is caused by the bacteria that is in plaque and calculus. Plaque is the sticky film that is left on your teeth that sits at the gum line. If not removed by proper brushing and flossing, the plaque can harden into calculus and toxins from the bacteria in plaque and calculus will irritate the gums and eat away the connections between your tooth and the surrounding gum. Even though gum disease is caused by the bacteria in plaque and calculus, there can be some additional contributing factors such as smoking, diabetes, stress, clenching/grinding the teeth, heart disease, some medications, and poor nutrition. The best way to prevent gum disease is with thorough brushing and nightly flossing. Unfortunately, genetics also play a role and even some people with good home care habits can still develop some form of gum disease. Once the disease starts, professional intervention is the only way to stop its progress. Periodontal TreatmentsShort-term treatmentThe initial treatment of gum disease can be done in our office by our hygienists with just 1-2 visits. We make you comfortable and perform a gum treatment that removes irritants that are under your gums and causing damage. Long-term treatmentIf you only do the initial treatment to treat gum disease, the likelihood for success is small. A hygienist needs to see you more frequently to help you continually remove the toxins under your gums. This is called periodontal maintenance. If you only do the initial gum therapy, there is a significant chance that the gum disease will not be entirely eliminated or it may come back. Quick Facts about gum disease:
Visit Frankart Family Dental to learn more about gum disease. Call us today at (513) 809-1366! |
Get in Touch!PHONE(513) 809-1366 EMERGENCY PHONE(513) 279-2980 officemgr@frankartfamilydental.com FAX(513) 573-9367 LOCATION3615 Socialville-Foster Rd. Suite E Mason, Ohio 45040 |
