Periodontal disease is one of the less talked about threats to your oral health. People mostly hear about cavities and dentures being the two main adverse effects of poor dental hygiene. However, periodontal disease is also something that patients should be aware of it.
Periodontal disease starts by a buildup of tartar. This buildup will eventually turn into a bacterial infection that seeps into the patient’s gums. Noticeable signs of this happening are red and inflamed gums. The bacterial infection can then start to destroy the bones surrounding the teeth. If this happens it will begin to cause the teeth to loosen and fall out.
Drs. Holmes and Holmes treat periodontal disease by performing a scaling and root planing procedure. During this procedure, our dentists will scrape away plaque and biofilm from the affected teeth’s roots in order to remove the bacteria that is the cause of periodontal disease.
After the root and planing, the patient should be sure to upkeep regular brushing and flossing. Strong oral hygiene habits will allow the patient to keep periodontal disease at bay. There is no cure for periodontal disease, but vigorous and regular cleaning will keep the disease at bay.
If you have noticed red or tender gums, please call Holmes Dental in Fort Collins, Colorado, today to set up an appointment with Drs. Holmes and Holmes.
