The diagnosis and treatment of gum disease at Taylor Street Dental
Created on January 30, 2021
While many patients think of a healthy smile as one that is free from cavities and looks great, these are not the only factors involved. Patients with a healthy smile will also need to have a smile that is free from periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, more commonly known to the public as “gum disease,” is an infection that requires early and immediate intervention. However, it is also completely preventable with good oral health habits at home between routine visits.
What is periodontal disease?
A better understanding of periodontal disease allows patients to have the knowledge they need to avoid its development. This condition is actually an infection. Bacteria develops on the soft tissues of the mouth, particularly the gums, and then creates pockets between the gum tissue and the teeth. These pockets are the perfect areas for bacteria to thrive, growing in numbers and spreading. The result of severe periodontal disease is often the loss of gum tissue, bone, and even natural teeth.
Is periodontal disease curable?
There is still no cure for periodontal disease. Once a patient has it, they will need to work regularly with their dentist to manage the condition and keep it from worsening. This is why early diagnosis of periodontal disease is vital to the health of the smile. In many cases, treatments will involve solutions such as antibiotics or scaling and root planing. These can help in controlling the infection and keep it from becoming more aggressive and damaging to the teeth and gums. Our practice also offers PerioProtect, an at-home treatment that takes the process one step further in addressing the bacteria present in the mouth.
How do I prevent gum disease?
There are ways to keep the smile healthy and free from periodontal disease. These same steps can also reduce the risk of developing cavities. Below are a few of the more common preventative steps patients can take to keep their smile healthy:
- Brushing after every meal and snack
- Flossing at least once a day
- Visiting the dentist every six months
- Contacting the dentist when problems arise
Contact the team of Taylor Street Dental in Springfield, MA
Interested in learning more about prevention and treatment of gum disease? Contact Drs. David Peck, Pablo Velastegui, and Mahmoud Homsi today at (413) 781-7645 to request a consultation appointment and work with our team of dedicated dental professionals!
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