What is Periodontal Disease and How Is It Treated?

Periodontal Disease is a fairly common gum infection generally caused by poor oral hygiene. Nearly half of adults older than 30 have periodontal disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Researchers have linked this disease with an increased risk of heart attack or stroke and other serious health problems.
While this infection is treatable, it unfortunately, often goes undetected and untreated.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Our mouths are full of bacteria, most of which is harmless. Sometimes, however, these bacteria can lead to infection. The plaque that develops on our teeth is made of bacteria as well as other substances. When this plaque accumulates on the teeth, it can cause bacteria to infect your gum tissue which may then lead to a Periodontal Disease or Periodontitis.

When your gums bleed easily, become cracked, or feel inflamed, those are signs of periodontal disease. In the early stages of periodontal disease, maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist can help to reverse these problems. In more severe cases, however, the infection can spread to bone tissue. This can lead to loss of bone tissue and the need for more extensive reconstruction of the teeth, jaw, and even the facial bones so it is very important to catch it in it's early stages if possible.

Periodontal Disease Treatment

The good news is that periodontal disease can be detected and treated early in this process. Speaking with your dentist and having a thorough examination done is a good first step in fighting back against periodontal disease. Any bleeding or inflammation of the gums is a sign of infection. At the early stages, non-surgical periodontal therapy is typically sufficient to treat the infection. This includes detoxification of the tooth root surface using ultrasonics and irrigation of your gums with a prescription antimicrobial medicine.

This type of gum disease is incredibly common, yet few people get the periodontal disease treatment they need. Dr. Richard Feinberg, your La Mesa periodontist can help you identify the signs of periodontal disease and can recommend treatments that work. Intervening early prevents periodontal disease from spreading and causing more extensive dental problems. We will also help you learn how to properly care for your teeth and gums to prevent a recurrence of periodontal disease.

You don't have to live with sensitive, bleeding gums. To receive high quality treatment for periodontal disease from the best periodontist La Mesa has, contact us here or call us at (619) 462-8550 today for an appointment.