Gum Disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, occurs with the progression of bacterial growth in the mouth. When left untreated, this condition can lead to other, more severe dental concerns.
At Parkwood Dental, Dr. Oscar Hernandez specializes in the treatment of Gum Disease with comprehensive treatment and the latest techniques and technology to restore health to your teeth.
Parkwood Dental has locations in both East and West Bradenton, Florida. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hernandez and find out more about our treatments for Gum Disease.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum Disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and can develop for several reasons, including:
- Illnesses that affect the immune system or blood sugar, such as HIV, cancer and diabetes.
- Hormonal changes that can occur during pregnancy, puberty, menopause and menstruation that can make gums more sensitive
- Bad lifestyle habits such as smoking or using chewing tobacco
- Not brushing or flossing on a regular basis and neglecting oral hygiene
- Heredity and family history has also been shown to contribute to Gum Disease
Gum Disease usually begins as gum inflammation, also known as gingivitis. When left untreated, this can advance to periodontitis, resulting in the gum tissue pulling away from the teeth. This often forms pockets between the teeth and gums where debris can collect and become infected.
In advanced Gum Disease, the toxins produced by plaque and by the infection-fighting processes in your body can break down the bone between the gums and teeth, resulting in loose teeth and eventual tooth loss.
How is Gum Disease Treated?
The overall goal of Gum Disease is to promote the reattachment of healthy gums to the teeth. This can be accomplished both multiple techniques, both surgical and nonsurgical.
Nonsurgical Gum Disease treatment includes having a comprehensive tooth cleaning performed. Plaque that has developed and hardened onto the tooth surface can only be removed with professional dental cleaning, and depending on the symptoms of Gum Disease that are already present, Dr. Hernandez may suggest having your teeth cleaned multiple times a year.
Another nonsurgical alternative includes a technique called planing and scaling, a deep-cleaning procedure where plaque and tartar are removed above and below the gum line and rough spots on the tooth surface are smoothed.
During your consultation with Dr. Hernandez, your teeth will be thoroughly examined and an individualized treatment plan will be created for you to restore beauty and function back to your smile.
Contact Parkwood Dental today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hernandez and find out more about our Gum Disease treatments.
