If the bacteria in your mouth take hold, especially in the pockets under your gums, it can lead to oral – and whole body – health disaster.
The bacteria that cause periodontal disease also has been linked to serious health problems such as cancers, heart diseases, strokes, poor circulation, problems with Diabetes and premature or low birth weight babies.
There often are no symptoms. Gums can recede, leaving teeth vulnerable to decay, abscesses and tooth loss – all without any bleeding or tenderness. But many people have at least minor symptoms, which can include the following:
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Puffiness or tenderness of the gums
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Loose-feeling teeth
Varieties of new technologies make the diagnosis and treatment of this disease more accurate, precise, thorough and comfortable than ever before. If we suspect periodontal disease, we use quick, comfortable and safe digital x-rays to take a closer look. With these images, we can accurately assess the level of perio disease and bone degeneration. Once diagnosed, we will treat the affected areas with ultrasonic scalers. The ultrasonic scalers use gentle pulses of water to remove bacteria or calculus from under the gum line and from the tooth root. Once cleaned, we will apply antibiotics directly to gums to help kill bacteria that cause the disease. In short, this disease is treatable, even at an advanced stage, to help you keep your teeth and improve your health.