If you are like most people, you probably don't give much thought to your teeth until something goes wrong. And unfortunately, periodontal disease is one of the most common dental problems in the world. In this blog post, we will provide an overview of what periodontal disease is, what causes it, what it does to your dental and overall health, and how it is treated. We hope this information helps you better understand this serious dental condition and encourages you to seek treatment if you think you may be affected. At First Hill Dental Center in Seattle, our dentists have the skills, experience, and knowledge to diagnose periodontal disease and treat it. Contact us today to set up an appointment.
What Is Periodontal (Or Gum) Disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious dental condition that can cause significant damage to the teeth and gums. It is a progressive infection that affects the tissues that support the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss.
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Bacteria in the mouth can infect the tissue surrounding the tooth, resulting in inflammation and disease of the periodontium. Bacteria that remain on teeth for long periods of time develop a film called plaque, which hardens to tartar, also known as calculus. A combination of factors including poor oral hygiene, smoking, and genetics may also play a part.
What Does Periodontal Disease Do to Your Teeth and Gums?
In the early stages of periodontal disease, the gums may become red and swollen and may bleed easily. As the infection progresses, the gums may pull away from the teeth, forming pockets of bacteria. The bacteria can then spread below the gum line where they can damage the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. This can lead to tooth loss.
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
The treatment for periodontal disease depends on the severity of the infection. In most cases, a cleaning and scaling procedure is performed to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. If there is significant damage to the tissues supporting the teeth, periodontal surgery may be necessary. Our dentists at First Hill Dental Center in Seattle are skilled in both cleaning and surgical treatment for periodontal disease.
If you think you may have periodontal disease, contact our office today to set up an appointment. We can perform a comprehensive examination to diagnose the condition and recommend the appropriate treatment.
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