Don't think so? Then you are feeling good about your mouth and gums! Your teeth have no plaque and tartar and you won’t need to visit your dentist again for another year, right?
Wrong!
If your gums bleed even a little when you brush, then you may have some form of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. Periodontal diseases are classified according to the severity of the disease. The two major stages are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a milder and reversible form of periodontal disease that only affects the gums. Gingivitis left unchecked can lead to the more serious, destructive forms of periodontal disease called periodontitis. Aside from trama, it is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Only your dentist or dental hygienist can determine the extent of the disease and will work with you to develop a treament plan.
A periodontal maintenance plan may be the answer.
If we feel that you are suffering from gingivitis or more severe gum disease, we may recommend a root scaling or planing or a full periodontal evaluation, followed by a periodontal maintenance regimen.
Periodontal maintenance includes the removal of calculus(A.K.A. Tartar), removal of bacterial plaque from above and below the gum-line, root planing or implant debridement if indicated, polishing of teeth, and a review of the patient’s home care.
Many patients are not aware that periodontal maintenance is the only sure way to keep gum disease from begining or returning. This treatment performed regularly at frequent intervals, as determined by your dental care provider, usually after procedures such as scaling and root planing.
At periodontal evaluation the dentist or hygienist measures the extent of the disease and creates a chart which can be instrumental in planning a course of treatment to get the gum tissue healthy, in turn preventing bone loss and ultimately helping you keep your natural teeth.
Family & Cosmetic Dentistrty
JOHN C. MELUCCI, D.D.S. ~ 3733 Poplar Avenue ~ Castle Shannon, Pennsylvania 15234
Phone: 412.531.6804 ~ Email: jcmeluccidds@comcast.net
www.meluccidds.com