Periodontal Maintenance

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, often referred to as gum disease, is a chronic and inflammatory condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligaments and alveolar bone. It typically begins with the accumulation of dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on the teeth and gums. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to a range of oral health issues, including gum inflammation (gingivitis) and the more severe condition known as periodontitis, which can result in gum recession, tooth loss and even systemic health problems.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a prevalent oral health condition that affects the tissues supporting your teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligaments, and bone. It typically starts with the accumulation of plaque on your teeth. Over time, if not effectively managed, it can progress and result in inflammation, gum recession, tooth mobility, and even tooth loss. Understanding the risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment options for periodontal disease is essential for maintaining good oral health.

Risk Factors for Periodontal Disease

Several factors increase the risk of developing periodontal disease:

  • Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to the buildup of plaque, which can eventually harden into tartar and contribute to gum disease.
  • Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco increases the likelihood of developing gum disease and can make treatment less effective.
  • Genetics: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to a higher risk of periodontal disease.
  • Certain Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, immune disorders, and hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy or menopause) can increase susceptibility to gum disease.
  • Medications: Some medications can affect oral health by reducing saliva flow or causing gum overgrowth.

  • Poor Nutrition: A poor diet can weaken the immune system and make it harder for your body to fight infections, including gum disease.

Diagnosing Periodontal Disease

Dr. Guthrie diagnoses periodontal disease through a comprehensive evaluation, which includes a visual examination to inspect your gums for signs of inflammation, bleeding, and recession. Dr. Guthrie will use a special instrument to measure the depth of the spaces (pockets) between your teeth and gums. Deeper pockets may indicate more advanced disease. X-rays may be taken to determine if any bone loss has occurred in the affected areas. In some cases, we may recommend tests to identify specific types and quantities of bacteria in your mouth.

Periodontal Maintenance with ARESTIN®

ARESTIN is a prescription medication that is sometimes used as an adjunctive treatment for periodontal disease, particularly in cases of moderate to severe gum infections. It contains minocycline, a type of antibiotic that is effective against the bacteria responsible for gum disease. When applied by your dentist, ARESTIN is delivered directly into the pockets between the teeth and gums where bacteria thrive. This localized antibiotic treatment helps to reduce the bacterial load, control infection, and promote gum healing.

ARESTIN is typically used in conjunction with other periodontal treatments, such as scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to achieve optimal results. It provides a targeted and sustained release of antibiotics over time, which can be more effective than oral antibiotics alone.  Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

Scaling & Root Planing

If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, the first stage of treatment is a thorough cleaning that may include scaling or root planing. Scaling and root planing removes plaque and calculus that has developed below the gum line along the root. During scaling and root planing, an irrigation process delivers an antimicrobial agent to reduce bacteria below the gums. Dr. Guthrie will determine if this procedure is necessary for you.

Periodontal Maintenance

Scaling and root planing is a comprehensive treatment which involves the meticulous removal of dental plaque, tartar (calculus), and bacterial toxins from the surfaces of teeth and their roots below the gumline. Here’s what to expect during the procedure:

Before scaling and root planing, Dr. Guthrie will conduct a thorough examination, which may include X-rays and measuring pocket depths between your teeth and gums. This helps determine the extent of gum disease and the areas that require treatment.

To ensure your comfort, a local anesthetic may be administered to numb the areas being treated. This minimizes any potential discomfort during the procedure.

Using specialized instruments, the dental professional will carefully remove the plaque and tartar deposits from both the tooth surfaces and the roots below the gumline. This process eliminates the bacterial buildup that contributes to gum disease.

After scaling, the dental professional will proceed to root planing. This involves smoothing out the rough surfaces of the tooth roots, which helps prevent the recurrence of plaque and tartar buildup and encourages the gums to reattach to the teeth.

Depending on the severity of your gum disease, you may require multiple visits for scaling and root planing to treat all affected areas thoroughly.

The Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a vital procedure in the management of periodontal disease. It not only addresses the immediate issues related to gum disease but also promotes the health and longevity of your teeth and gums while potentially benefiting your overall well-being. It’s important to follow Dr. Guthrie’s recommendations for post-treatment care and maintenance to achieve the best possible outcomes.

  • Gum Disease Management: Scaling and root planing is a highly effective treatment. Removing bacterial deposits helps stop the progression of the disease, preventing further damage to the supporting structures of the teeth.
  • Improved Oral Health: This procedure can lead to healthier gums, reduced inflammation, and the potential for gum tissue to reattach to the teeth, ultimately preventing tooth loss.
  • Enhanced Overall Health: Gum disease has been linked to various systemic health issues, including cardiovascular problems and diabetes complications. By treating gum disease, scaling and root planing may contribute to improved overall health.

  • Preservation Of Teeth: This treatment can help save teeth that might otherwise have been lost due to advanced gum disease.

  • Long-Term Maintenance: Scaling and root planing, when combined with good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups, can help patients maintain their oral health over the long term.

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Dr. Guthrie and her team are ready to provide you with top-notch dental services within a pristine and expertly managed setting. We aim to ensure that patients of all ages feel at ease and self-assured during their dental visits. Ready to schedule an appointment with JRFD?

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