Genoa Periodontal Care

Periodontal (gum) disease is an inflammation of the gums caused by poor oral hygiene, though genetics and other factors can play a role. If you do not brush or floss properly, plaque and tartar can build up between your teeth and your gums. Over time, the bacteria in plaque and tartar will begin attacking and infecting your gums. 
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The symptoms of this are minor initially. However, if treatment is not provided, the disease will continue to progress and cause irreversible damage to your teeth. The best way to prevent periodontal disease is to brush and floss properly and see Dr. Justin every six months for a cleaning and oral exam.

The first stage of periodontal disease is called gingivitis. The effects of gingivitis are relatively minor and with proper periodontal care and at-home oral hygiene, you can completely eliminate the disease, as it causes no permanent damage.
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If you do not get care in time, it can progress to the second stage, which is referred to as periodontitis. This stage of gum disease is irreversible, and can never be completely eliminated. However, with proper intervention and periodontal care, it can be controlled and its progression can be stopped, allowing you to save your teeth.
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The final stage of gum disease is often called advanced periodontitis. In this stage of the disease, it’s highly likely that you will lose most or all of your teeth, due to the extent of damage done by the infection to your teeth and your gums.

The signs and symptoms of gum disease are relatively minor, at first. Gingivitis typically has symptoms like bleeding when brushing or flossing, puffiness and inflammation of the gums, gum discoloration, and halitosis (bad breath).
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As the disease becomes more severe, the symptoms worsen. Periodontitis or advanced periodontitis may cause symptoms like gum recession, tooth sensitivity to temperature and pressure, a change in how your teeth fit together, or loosening of your teeth. Pus may form between the teeth and gums, and you may have a foul taste in your mouth that won’t go away.

The first step is usually “scaling & root planing” also known as deep cleaning. This consists of cleaning plaque and tartar away from between your teeth and gums and smoothing the roots of your teeth to eliminate “bacterial pockets.” Combined with antibiotics, this treatment  can typically resolve most cases of gingivitis and halt the progression of periodontitis. 
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For more advanced cases of gum disease, oral surgery may be required to clean the teeth, restore the gums, and save your teeth. In the most serious cases, you may need to have all of your teeth extracted and replaced with dentures or dental implants.