Periodontal disease refers to diseases that affect the gums. Gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, is one example.
Periodontal disease refers to diseases that affect the gums. Gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, is one example.
Gum disease is very common, affecting more than half of patients over the age of 30 at some time in their lives. Some people are at higher risk, including:
You can take steps to prevent periodontal disease by brushing twice a day and flossing every day. Your dentist may also be able to recommend an appropriate mouthwash routine. To fight gum disease, you should limit how much acidic and sugary food you eat.
Periodontal disease can cause your gums to become sore, swollen, and bloody. Your gum line may also recede, leaving your teeth and jaw vulnerable to infections. Luckily, there are several treatment options you can discuss with Dr. Mistry, depending on the severity of your illness.
It is important to address periodontal disease as quickly as possible. Issues like periodontitis are serious because they impact not only your oral health but are also linked to higher rates of heart disease and even health issues such as kidney problems and cancer.
Dr. Mistry may be able to recommend surgical and non-surgical techniques to treat your periodontal disease. Some strategies include:
It is possible that in spite of your best efforts you may require more aggressive gum therapy. Like many other ailments, gum disease can be quite painless due to its slow progression.
After a thorough periodontal screening and examination, we may choose more aggressive therapies aimed at eliminating or reducing the amounts of bacterial poisons and plaque accumulating below the gum line, (generally cleaning and polishing of teeth is above the gum-line). This involves curettage and root planing and/or treatment with site-specific administration of medications to the affected gums. Curettage is the debridement of the soft tissue lining around the tooth. In disease, this tissue is chronically irritated by bacteria deep below the visible gum-line and needs to be removed so that proper healing can occur. Root-Planing is the removal and smoothing of micro-amounts of root surface so that a clean and un-infected surface is presented to the healing lining of soft tissue.
These two procedures are generally done simultaneously, may require local anesthesia and are skillfully done by our well-trained hygienists under Dr. Kevin Mistry’s supervision.
Gum disease does not happen overnight and treatment generally is spread out over time as the effectiveness of a procedure needs to be assessed before the next takes place. Generally, your condition is re-assessed in time and joint decisions are made about your next step. The services of a specialist (Periodontist) may be required should surgical intervention be required. Often surgery allows for complete healing of the gum and bone, reduced mobility of teeth and a greatly improved prognosis.
Early detection is key when it comes to gum disease. If you have noticed that your gums are tender or look different, call Lighthouse Dental today or fill out our contact form to make an appointment. Even if you don’t have any concerns, twice-annual dental checkups are vital to maintaining good oral health.
Dr. Kevin Mistry’s hygiene team will work with you to assure that you have access to the care that best suits your needs. They will also help you hone your home-care skills so that you can maintain the optimum level of health that you want.
At Lighthouse Dental, your Arlington General Dentistry clinic, we offer state-of-the-art dental care tailored to meet your individual needs. With your comfort as our top priority, we strive to give you a beautiful smile worth showing off. Whether you need routine check-ups, cleanings, or more advanced procedures, our skilled team is here to ensure you receive the best care possible. Visit us and experience the difference at Lighthouse Dental.
At Lighthouse Dental, our commitment to excellence as an Arlington cosmetic dentist is evident in every aspect of our practice. We pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of dental innovation, ensuring that we always offer the latest cosmetic techniques and technology to our patients. This approach allows us to provide exceptional care and results, whether you’re seeking a subtle enhancement or a complete smile makeover.
Do your teeth need some polish? Maybe you’ve noticed discomfort while you eat but aren’t sure what’s wrong. A dental exam and cleaning appointment with Lighthouse Dental will make sure your teeth are pristine and well-cared-for.
If you are suffering from a toothache or sensitivity, it may be time to get checked for cavities. These little holes caused by tooth decay can sneak up on you, but when they arrive, time is of the essence. If left untreated, the deterioration could worsen, requiring a more extensive procedure such as a crown or root canal.
Lighthouse Dental in Arlington, VA, should be your go-to if you suspect you might have a cavity and need a dental filling.
Periodontal disease refers to diseases that affect the gums. Gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, is one example.
Meaningful treatment begins with proper diagnosis. We will do a thorough evaluation of your problem to determine the best way that we can help and the appropriate therapy.
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