Periodontal Care
Healthy gums are an essential component to an overall healthy smile.
An effective home care routine includes brushing and flossing at least twice daily to prevent harmful bacteria, which can eventually progress into periodontal (gum) disease, from organizing at or beneath the gum line.
Regular dental cleanings and exams are essential for healthy gums.
The American Dental Association® recommends that adults and children be seen by a dentist 2-3 times per year for periodontal maintenance and a complete examination with necessary x-rays. At these routine dental visits, your dentist and dental hygienist will carefully examine the soft tissue and supporting structures to look for any signs of the oral infection known as gum disease.
Periodontal (Gum) Disease
In many cases, periodontal disease does not hurt. Signs and symptoms include inflammation and bleeding, a bad taste in the mouth, receding gums, loose teeth and bad breath. If left untreated, the infection will eventually break down enough gum tissue and bone to cause the teeth to become loose and fall out.
Maintaining regular dental hygiene appointments can help prevent the onset of gum disease, as well as detect early warning signs. The dentist and hygienist will check for bleeding gums, tartar deposits below the gum line and measure for ‘pockets’ – areas where gum tissue is starting to pull away from the tooth.
Non-surgical Periodontal Therapy
When detected early, gum disease can be treated with non-surgical periodontal therapy. This process involves thoroughly cleaning the mouth and treating areas of infection to promote the growth of healthy gum tissue. Following periodontal treatment, patients should be seen every 3-4 months to monitor healing and response and to assess whether additional treatment is needed.
Schedule your next dental cleaning and examination visit.
Regular dental cleanings and check-ups give us the opportunity to continually monitor your oral health to help prevent and detect serious conditions. If you are experiencing symptoms of periodontal disease or have any concerns about the condition of your teeth and gums, contact us to schedule a complete examination.
"All at Mobley Family Dentistry are always professional, friendly and helpful. Today Dr. Rhonda was with another patient when she was to check me after a cleaning. Dr. Alan came in to check me, but before I left Dr. Rhonda took the time to step into the room just to say hello and see how I was doing. That's just one way Mobley Family Dentistry makes you feel like ‘Family.’"
— Joan
