Flint Family Dentistry Services
Nearly all people who do not maintain good daily oral hygiene will develop gingivitis at some point. If left untreated, this bacterial gum infection can progress from gingivitis to periodontitis, which results in bone loss around your teeth.
As the bone tissue is lost, the gum tissues detach from the teeth and form little pockets that provide an even better place for bacteria to live ‘ where your brush and floss can’t reach. As periodontal disease advances, bone loss and tooth loss can result. Part of this has to do with genetics, as periodontal disease tends to run in families. The good news is that periodontal disease can be controlled, even at more advanced stages.
It’s important to understand that you can have periodontal disease with no obvious symptoms, especially if you smoke. Still, there are some important things to look for:
All periodontal therapy starts with the evaluation of your oral hygiene techniques and instructions for improvement, followed by the mechanical removal of plaque and any calcified deposits (tartar or calculus) present on root surfaces. This is accomplished with a cleaning technique known as scaling, root planing or debridement using hand instruments and/or ultrasonic (high frequency vibrational) instruments. Locally applied antimicrobial products or antibiotics might also be recommended during various parts of periodontal treatment to assist in healing and pocket-depth reduction, hopefully eliminating the need for periodontal surgery.
Sometimes surgical procedures may be necessary to remove the deep pockets that form between inflamed gum tissue and teeth. There are many different types of surgery that handle a variety of problems. Often, combinations of procedures are used in order to reduce the number of surgeries as well as the cost of treatment.
Preventive Strategies The best way to prevent periodontal disease is to brush and floss your teeth effectively every day. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings every 6 months are also an important part of maintaining periodontal health; we can reach into areas that your toothbrush and floss can’t.
Regular cleanings and checkups are key to maintaining your oral health and can contribute to your overall health and wellness. The word periodontal means “around the tooth”. Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that support the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. If plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar). When plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone. Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.
Did you know that four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it? Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages.
Not only is gum disease the number one reason for tooth loss, but research also suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk during pregnancy. Researchers are determining if inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease affects these systemic diseases and conditions. Smoking also increases the risk of periodontal disease.
Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.
To prevent bad breath, practice good oral hygiene and make lifestyle adjustments:
Additionally, visit your dentist at least twice a year for check-ups and cleanings. If bad breath persists despite good oral care, your dentist may refer you to a physician to explore other underlying health issues.
Bad breath, or halitosis, can be caused by various factors, with the most common reason being microbial deposits on the tongue, especially at the back. Morning breath is common because saliva production slows during sleep, allowing bacteria to grow. Other causes include:
Keeping a record of your diet, medications, and any recent illnesses or surgeries can help your dentist identify the cause of bad breath.
Gum disease progresses through several stages:
The best way to prevent gum disease is through proper oral hygiene. Brush and floss at least twice daily to remove plaque buildup, especially at the gum line where gingivitis begins. Flossing is essential for cleaning between teeth, and using a mouth rinse can also help maintain gum health. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also crucial in preventing gum disease progression.
Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it! Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages. Unlike tooth decay, which often causes discomfort, it is possible to have periodontal disease without noticeable symptoms. Having regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are very important and will help detect if periodontal problems exist.
Periodontal disease begins when plaque, a sticky, colorless, film of bacteria, food debris, and saliva, is left on the teeth and gums. The bacteria produce toxins (acids) that inflame the gums and slowly destroy the bone. Brushing and flossing regularly and properly will ensure that plaque is not left behind to do its damage.
Other than poor oral hygiene, there are several other factors that may increase the risk of developing periodontal disease:
Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.
That little bit of blood in your toothpaste every time you spit? That’s not supposed to be there. Gingivitis is the swelling and irritation of the gingiva, which is the upper part of your gum at the base of your teeth, and if it’s not taken care of quickly it can lead to tooth loss, periodontitis, and other gum diseases.
Gingivitis begins most often with poor dental health. When the biofilm on teeth isn’t brushed away regularly, it can build up to form plaque, and that plaque is what causes irritation. Then, as the plaque builds, it turns into calculus-otherwise known as tartar-which is much more difficult to remove than plaque and is a breeding ground for bacteria. Only a professional dental cleaning can remove calculus. If that calculus isn’t addressed, it will begin to irritate the gingiva, causing irritation, which then allow the gums to bleed more easily. This bleeding then opens the door to more bacteria getting directly into the gums and the bloodstream, leading to tooth loss, periodontitis and the risk of various other diseases.
Poor brushing habits are the most common risk factors for gingivitis, but other conditions can contribute to the risk, including:
We help you attain and maintain a healthy mouth, which has a direct impact on the health of the rest of your body. No matter what your needs or goals for your smile may be, the Grossi Dental team is here to help. We look forward to meeting you and every member of your family and helping you take your first steps toward better smiles and healthier lives. Total wellness starts with your oral health.
Take some time to learn more about the services we provide, and when you’re ready to schedule an appointment with our dentists, contact our office.
Our experienced and caring team is dedicated to serving patients of all ages, from children to seniors, and providing top-notch oral health care for the entire family. We strive to make dental visits easy and stress-free for you and your loved ones. Our family-friendly atmosphere ensures that every member of your household feels comfortable and at ease during their dental appointments.
From routine check-ups and cleanings to preventive treatments like dental sealants and fluoride treatments, we prioritize preventive care to maintain healthy smiles for a lifetime. Should any dental concerns arise, our skilled dentists are equipped to deliver a wide range of services, including restorative treatments, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry.
Visit the Patient Center to learn what to expect from your first visit, forms, financial policies, and frequently asked questions!