Understanding Periodontal Disease

Millions of people pay regular visits to their Denver dentist each year to have their teeth cleaned and examined. The purpose of these check-ups is to maintain the overall health of the gums and teeth and to prevent more serious diseases. One of the primary jobs of a dental hygienist is to ensure their patients do not get gingivitis, which is a bacterial infection and inflammation of the gum tissue. Gingivitis can lead to “periodontal disease”, usually the primary mitigating factor for bone and tooth loss.

Teeth actually contain living tissues - bone marrow, nerves and blood vessels. Pain and aches affecting the teeth can spread into the surrounding and supporting hard and soft tissues (bone and gums).

If the gums and bone recede, the roots of the teeth are not protected from bacteria and decay.

Visual indicators may not always be present, but there will usually be some sensitivity in the area of the infection as well as some bleeding during brushing, gum swelling or unnatural reddening, and development chronic bad breath.

The patient has to identify the basic reasons behind gum disease before they can take the steps necessary to bring it under control.

In any case, a treatment regimen must be started immediately to combat and infection and address any resultant damage. Denver dentists will first examine the damage and advise a daily oral hygiene maintenance routine including brushing, flossing and antibiotic rinses.

The next item to be addressed is the amount of tartar on the teeth, which must be removed professionally.

If the bone has become vulnerable, special techniques like grafting and laser treatments can be used to lessen the gaps between teeth and gums.

The loss of a single tooth as a result of periodontal disease can affect the strength of the jawbone and lead to more health trouble for the patient.

Any work or effort at treating and maintaining natural teeth will be repaid in better overall health and wellness.