Periodontal Therapy An Overview
Maintaining healthy and stable gums is essential for a lifetime of good oral and overall health. The gums serve two important functions for your health and wellness:
- Supporting the teeth: gum tissues nurture and support tooth structure, keeping your bite stable.
- A barrier for harmful bacteria: healthy gums keep harmful bacteria from entering the bloodstream, reducing your risk for developing an inflammatory-related disease or exacerbating existing medical conditions.
At Butler Family Dentistry, our team emphasizes the importance of gum health and supports your role in maintaining good oral health through preventive dental care and hygiene advice. When you visit for routine dental care Dr. Butler screens for gum disease, looking for the early warning signs of gingivitis such as gums that bleed during treatment, red or swollen gums or the development of pockets along the tooth roots. Treating gum disease in the early stage can minimize or avoid damage and is often accomplished with conservative measures.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease is progressive and often called a “silent disease” in the early stage where many patients are unaware of the signs or symptoms.
- Gingivitis: early stage periodontal disease that is often characterized by bleeding gums, red gums, increased sensitivity and persistent bad breath.
- Periodontitis: advanced gum disease can result in pronounced changes in oral health including shifting of teeth, changes in the bite or the fit of a denture and even tooth loss.