Gum disease, or periodontal disease, affects millions of people worldwide. Periodontal disease is an infection of the supporting tissues that surround your teeth. Because it doesn’t cause much discomfort in the early stages, many patients don’t realize they have it, meaning they don’t seek proper treatment.
Patients with diabetes or those who use tobacco products are at a higher risk of developing this oral infection. When left untreated, periodontal disease can contribute to other serious health problems.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Periodontal disease is caused by the sticky film of bacteria called plaque that continually forms on your teeth. When it’s not routinely removed by daily brushing and flossing, plaque can cause your gums to become inflamed.
Bacteria settle into pockets beneath the gum line, where they cause irritation that leads to the teeth separating from the gums. This process slowly destroys bone and other supporting tissues without periodontal treatment, such as scaling and root planing.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease is one of the leading reasons adults experience tooth loss. It has two primary stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the early stage of periodontal disease. Gum tissues become red, swollen, and inflamed and may bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress and develop into more severe forms of gum disease, such as periodontitis.
Periodontitis
Advanced Care & Hygiene
This stage can often be reversed with proper home care, including brushing and flossing, an antimicrobial mouthwash, and more frequent dental visits with a hygienist. Professional teeth cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup, which can irritate the gums.
Dr. Bindra may prescribe antibiotics or an antiseptic mouthwash to kill any remaining bacteria and reduce inflammation. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly, to prevent gingivitis from returning.
Scaling and Root Planing
When your condition has advanced beyond gingivitis, Dr. Bindra of Crestview Family Dental in Santa Clara, CA, may recommend scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning. This is a non- surgical treatment that could require several appointments.
You’ll be numb during this procedure as we use special tools to remove plaque, bacteria, and debris from the areas surrounding the teeth. Root planing involves smoothing the root surfaces, which helps restore gum health.
Preventing Periodontal Disease
Preventing gum disease is possible by practicing good oral hygiene at home and having routine checkups with your Santa Clara dentist. Schedule your dental exams twice a year, and make sure you brush and floss daily.
Other Services
Geriatric Dentistry
Emergency Dentistry
Invisalign
All Services
→