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Periodontal Disease and Deep Cleaning

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an inflammatory condition caused by chronic infection and affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. It begins with gingivitis, characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the inflammation spreads deeper into the supporting structures of the teeth, deep inside the bone of your jaw and gum.

How Does It Affect Health?

Periodontal disease can have significant implications for overall health. The bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream, contributing to various systemic conditions, including:

Heart Disease: Increased risk of heart attacks and stroke due to inflammation and bacteria affecting blood vessels.

Diabetes: Gum disease can make blood sugar levels harder to control, creating a vicious cycle of worsening health.

Respiratory Issues: Bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, leading to respiratory infections.

Pregnancy Complications: There is evidence suggesting a link between gum disease and preterm birth or low birth weight.

Treatment Options

Effective treatment for periodontal disease typically involves a multi-faceted approach:

Professional Cleaning: Regular dental cleanings help remove plaque and tartar build-up from the most superficial parts of teeth outside the gum. For more advanced cases, deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) may be necessary to clean below the gum line.

Antibiotics: In some cases, a localized antibiotic may be necessary to be able to reach the diseased tissue and help control the infection.

Surgery: For severe periodontitis, surgical procedures such as flap surgery or bone grafts may be needed to restore gum health.

Ongoing Care: Maintenance visits every three to six months are crucial to monitor gum health and prevent recurrence.

Maintenance for Healthy Gums

Preventing periodontal disease requires diligent oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Here are some key maintenance tips:

Daily Brushing and Flossing: Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily with correct and effective technique to remove plaque from between the teeth and below the gum line.

Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule routine visits for professional cleanings and examinations to catch any issues early.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Avoid tobacco products, maintain a balanced diet, and manage health conditions like diabetes to support gum health. Supplements such as Vitamin C provide an extra level of support for your gum health. 

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help wash away food particles and bacteria.

By understanding periodontal disease and its effects on overall health, you can take proactive steps to maintain your oral health and well-being. Remember gum disease is a sneaky disease and most times it is painless. If you suspect you may have gum disease, contact our office for an evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Your smile deserves the best care!

Happy Smiles Dental sees patients from all over the US and Canada who come to receive expert care from Dr. Alireza Hamidzadeh DDS. MS.  We also proudly serve Maryland including Clarksburg, Germantown, Damascus, Frederick, as well as Washington DC, West Virginia, Virginia and Pennsylvania.

Want a Health and a Brilliant Happy Smile?  Take one of ours!

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