Combat Periodontitis and Prevent Tooth Loss
Periodontal Dentistry in Chesapeake, VA
A serious dental problem that many people suffer from is periodontitis, otherwise known as gum disease. If you don’t know the signs of gum disease, you may not even know you have it and may normalize symptoms that should be addressed. At the Center for Restorative, Cosmetic, and Implant Dentistry in Chesapeake, VA, we offer high-quality periodontal dentistry services that can help you prevent and treat gum disease.
Symptoms and Causes of Gum Disease
Gum disease can be caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow the bacteria to build up on the teeth and harden. It can also be a result of smoking or using chewing tobacco. Sometimes, when females have a hormonal shift, such as when pregnant or during monthly menstrual cycles, it may make them more susceptible to gum disease. Some medications can also cause side effects that lead to dry mouth, which encourages the growth of bacteria. Another culprit is vitamin deficiency. If your diet consists of primarily sugar and carbohydrates with little water or Vitamin C, this can lead to gum disease. Because the unchecked growth of bacteria can happen more easily in places that are hard-to-reach with a toothbrush or floss, overlapping teeth can sometimes create conditions for an increased chance of gum disease developing. Additionally, if gum disease runs in your family, you may be at a slightly higher risk of developing it as well.
Gum disease doesn’t happen overnight. Plaque and tartar build-up over time and irritate the gums. The tissue starts to become swollen and red from the irritation. When this happens, the tissue may be tender, and the gums may begin to recede from the roots of the teeth. You may notice they bleed easily, especially when brushing your teeth. Bad breath can also accompany gum disease.
If you notice any of the early symptoms of gum disease, schedule a cleaning and checkup. These are the first steps to restoring your oral health. Our hygienist will determine the level of periodontal damage and recommend a treatment plan.
Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can often be treated with deep cleanings at our office, accompanied by good oral hygiene habits. The dentist may prescribe a prescription mouthwash to fight the infection and allow the gums to heal.
Contact us today to schedule your checkup and protect your gums, teeth and oral health.
Treatment for Gum Disease in Chesapeake, VA
Caring for your beautiful smile starts below the teeth, at the gums. If your gums are unhealthy, it can affect your teeth and overall health. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. It also puts you at a higher risk for diabetes, stroke and pregnancy complications. That’s why it’s important to seek guidance and treatment from a practice that offers periodontal dentistry services.
Good oral hygiene and regular general dentistry can help prevent gum disease. If you do get a gum infection, we offer effective treatments for gum disease at the Center for Restorative, Cosmetic, and Implant Dentistry, a periodontal dentistry practice in the Chesapeake, VA, area. A periodontist specializes in the treatment of gum disease and has received specific training that focuses on the gums and bone supporting the teeth.
Gum disease, or periodontitis, occurs when teeth are exposed to the bacteria that cause plaque and tartar. It is essentially an infection of the gum tissue that can cause inflammation and attack the tissues in the mouth.
Treatment involves removing tartar and plaque with deep cleanings and fighting the infection with medication. The sooner treatment is started, the better chance there is of reversing the damage to the gums and teeth and stopping the spread.
Periodontal Therapy in Chesapeake, VA
At the Center for Restorative, Cosmetic, and Implant Dentistry, keeping our patients’ smiles healthy with periodontal dentistry is our top priority. When it comes to oral health, periodontal (or gum) disease is one of the biggest threats. Over 50% of adults over thirty have some level of periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth and bone loss, as well as put you at risk for many other serious health problems. We strive to help our patients prevent gum disease, but when it occurs, we have effective periodontal therapy available.
Periodontal disease progresses in stages. The early stage, gingivitis, can often be reversed with better home care and more frequent professional cleanings. However, when the gums start receding and tissue damage begins to occur, more aggressive therapy may be required to stop the infection and allow the gums to heal. That’s when it’s especially critical to reach out to a periodontal dentist in Chesapeake.
If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, don’t let it continue to progress and put your health at risk. Contact our Virginia periodontal dentistry office today for effective periodontal therapy in Virginia Beach, Greenbrier and Great Bridge.
