Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal Maintenance at El Portal Dental Group
Common, yet fairly preventable, periodontal disease is the infection of the gums. As periodontal disease spreads, it can destroy the bone structure and support of your teeth. Periodontal disease is primarily caused by the build-up of dental plaque. Depending on the type of periodontal disease, there are various treatment approaches. A good daily hygiene routine incorporating brushing and flossing prevents most cases of periodontal conditions.
Why Is Oral Hygiene So Important?
Although cavities may sound scarier to you, most adults lose their teeth more often to gum disease than from cavities. However, with consistent and exceptional dental hygiene practices, both periodontal disease and cavities can most often be prevented.
Both gum disease and cavities are caused by plaque buildup. The bacteria in this film sticks to your teeth near the gums, builds up (forming what is known as calculus), and later becomes decay and disease.
Although the buildup of plaque is not the only factor that expedites periodontal disease, it is the most common. Other factors may include smoking, stress, clenching and grinding teeth, medication, poor nutrition, and diabetes.
Periodontal Disease
The plaque that builds up on the teeth is filled with bacteria. This bacteria produces toxins, aggravating the gums, sometimes causing redness, swelling, and even bleeding. If this aggravation continues, the gums may separate from the teeth, causing gaps to form. As the disease progresses, the gums and bones holding the teeth in place continue to deteriorate, eventually causing tooth loss if left untreated.
Preventing Gum Disease
As mentioned before, the best way to prevent gum disease is to perform strong daily dental hygiene practices as well as scheduling regular dental examinations and cleanings. Although these practices work wonders–even with the best dental hygiene practice–it is still possible for some amount of periodontal disease to form.