Periodontics in Salem OR is a dental specialty that focuses on the health of the gum tissue. Periodontists help patients heal gum disease and prevent the problem from developing again in the future. Good hygiene habits and regular dental care are important in this effort.
Preventing Gum Disease
Regular brushing and flossing, along with tartar removal during professional dental cleanings, are the primary methods for preventing gum disease. Gingivitis, or mild inflammation to the gums, is the initial stage of periodontal disease. This usually can be corrected with tartar removal and better oral hygiene. Once the condition progresses to a further stage of gum disease, a specialist in Periodontics in Salem OR may be necessary to help the patient.
Progressive Problems
Gums start to recede when they are diseased, leaving pockets that the dentist can measure with a specialized tool. Left untreated, periodontal disease begins to attack the hard structures holding the teeth in place, which can cause teeth to start becoming loose. These problems are significantly worsened if the patient smokes or chews tobacco, which is very irritating to the gum tissue.
Serious Periodontal Disease
Patients who have not seen a dentist in many years and have not practiced good oral hygiene can develop serious gum disease that requires cleaning of the teeth roots and even surgical intervention. If the root surface has become infected by bacteria, a periodontist with a clinic such as Idylwood Dental can perform a treatment known as scaling and planing. Sometimes root surface tissue must be removed if it has become damaged by periodontal disease. The patient’s mouth will feel sore afterward, and a soft diet is recommended for a few days.
A Gradual Process
Periodontal disease can take many years to reach this level of severity. It happens so gradually that men and women may barely notice it. They become accustomed to their gums bleeding when they brush their teeth. A concerned friend may have mentioned bad breath, and they start chewing breath mints regularly. Ignoring the problem is a bad idea because the condition will only continue to worsen. Instead, people dealing with any level of gum disease might check out the website Idylwooddental.com.
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