Periodontal Maintenance and Care The perfect smile is more than just your teeth; your gums are just as important. Unfortunately, gums are often overlooked and neglected, which can lead to gum disease. Riverstone Dental Group practices periodontal maintenance and care as a fundamental part of our approach to preventive dentistry. Understanding Gum DiseaseGum disease is almost always a consequence of insufficient dental hygiene. This means a lack of proper brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. Brushing and flossing on their own are not enough to keep bacteria at bay, and relying solely on professional cleanings will quickly end up causing bacteria and plaque to flourish. Gum disease, periodontitis, is typically preceded by gingivitis. When gingivitis is not caught early, the bacteria will begin to drill into your gums, attacking the roots of your teeth until they start to fall out of your mouth. Spotting the Signs of Gum DiseaseOur dentists are trained to keep a close eye out for even the smallest signs of gum disease every time you come in for an exam and cleaning. But even if we are seeing you every six months like the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends, that is still plenty of time for gum disease, or at least gingivitis, to flare up. That is why you should have an idea of what to look for so that if you do spot any signs you can take action immediately. Your gums should never bleed or irritate you. If you are experiencing these symptoms when brushing, you may be using too much pressure, or you may have gum disease. If you are experiencing these symptoms when eating or otherwise not brushing, it is very likely gum disease. Chronic bad breath, recessive gums, and teeth that are loose in the gums are also all signs of gum disease. Professional Periodontal Maintenance and CareThe nature of professional periodontal maintenance and care depends on the extent of the disease in your mouth. Scaling and root planing is a low-impact procedure designed to get rid of small infestations of bacteria. If the bacteria have more of a foothold in your mouth, surgery, or pharmaceuticals may be called for. In the worst cases, bone grafting and extractions can be necessary. To prevent these more invasive procedures, you can make sure that you are visiting us every six months, or more often if recommended. Our standard dental cleanings include periodontal maintenance. Periodontal Maintenance and Care at HomeThe key to healthy gums and avoiding the need for periodontal maintenance is making gum care a standard part of your oral hygiene routine. By brushing each day, once in the morning and once at night for two minutes both times, you can prevent most of the risk of gum disease. Flossing is also critical, as bacteria can lurk between your teeth before attacking the gums. Do You Need Professional Periodontal Maintenance?If it has been longer than six months since your last professional dental cleaning, or if you have not been brushing and flossing as frequently as the ADA's guidelines recommend, then you may need professional periodontal maintenance. To schedule your consultation with Riverstone Dental Group, you can reach us at (925) 414-9250. |
 |
