Take a Stand against Bacteria

Created on March 15, 2017

Tooth loss used to be incredibly common, affecting approximately half of all adults to the fullest extent (toothlessness). Today, we have far fewer instances of complete tooth loss. However, tooth loss does remain a common problem for the average American adult. The whole idea of having permanent teeth is that you need your teeth, no matter how old you get. That means teeth themselves need to be maintained, as well as the gums that support them. We are here to help you do just that.

Gum disease is an infectious process that originates with bacteria. The tiny microorganisms that live in the mouth cannot be eradicated. In fact, they are necessary. At the same time, they can quickly get out of hand when conditions are right. Here’s a little secret: conditions are always right. The mouth is a naturally acidic environment. Add to that the standard diet that most of us consume, and you’ve set the stage for imbalance. The more bacteria that are present in the mouth, the higher the acidity goes, and this cycle just perpetuates until, at some point, you see your dentist for help.

There is a standard of care that is used pretty much across the board for any patient with moderate gum disease: scaling and root planing. This restorative procedure is necessary, and the only way to clean the pockets that have formed around teeth. These periodontal pockets form because inflammation in gum tissue has caused recession and separation. Once bacteria accumulate in these pockets, they do not come out on their own.  Removing them is necessary to stop the infection from progressing and, ultimately, causing tooth loss.

Scaling and root planing are the first line of defense, but not the end-all-be-all. After we have gained some control over the infection, we want to then control bacteria in the future. Without a clear follow-up step, you could find yourself right back in the dentist’s chair for another procedure. The way we follow-up with our patients is with the Perio Protect system.

Perio Protect is a daily treatment that consists of wearing custom-fit trays for a short period. These trays contain a special formulation of medication that destroys the harmful bacteria that threaten gum health.  It’s a simple task with great rewards.

The team at Taylor Street Dental in Springfield can help you manage gum disease and all of your other dental needs. Call (413) 781-7645.

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