Greater Essex Dental provides periodontic care in Merrimac, MA.
Call us at 978-346-4610 to make an appointment.
What Is Periodontics?
Periodontics is the treatment of the gums. Gum disease is a common dental problem, ranging from gingivitis to advanced periodontal disease. This disease causes gum swelling, bleeding, gum recession, bad breath, and in advanced cases, bone loss leading to eventual tooth loss. If patients observe the signs of gum disease, they must work closely with their dentists to develop a treatment plan and practice proper home care.
Benefits of Periodontics
Periodontal treatment significantly improves your oral health. By keeping the teeth and root surfaces clean, the dentist can reduce periodontal pockets and prevent plaque and tartar from collecting under the gumline. Treating periodontal disease may also reduce the rate of tooth loss.
Procedures Offered
Scaling and Root Planing
To scale the teeth, the hygienist uses a specialized tool to reach under the gumline and remove tartar and plaque. Root planing smooths the root's outer surfaces, making it easier for the healing gums to adhere to them and reducing pocket size. Scaling and root planing are also called deep cleaning.
Periodontal Maintenance
Scaling and root planing need to happen every three months for life. Dentists prescribe periodontal maintenance at short intervals because they must remove the bacteria that calcifies into tartar before it can cause disease. Regular scaling and root planing prevents the disease from worsening.
Why Choose Greater Essex Dental?
Our practice provides expert, compassionate care in a friendly and comfortable setting. We use updated materials and equipment to ensure you get the best possible dental experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontics
Why is treating gum disease so essential?
Gum disease causes oral health problems like bad breath and tooth loss, but it can also severely impact your overall health. The inflammation brought on by gum disease may contribute to systemic problems like heart disease, diabetes, and preterm birth. Gum disease also causes tooth loss.
How does gum disease lead to tooth loss?
When the gums recede due to periodontal problems, the bone around the teeth becomes exposed and breaks down. This process makes teeth loose and eventually allows them to fall out.
Is gum disease reversible?
With proper home care, gingivitis (the earliest stage of gum disease) is fully reversible. Ensure good dental care and maintain a consistent home care routine. If you notice the signs of gingivitis, including gum swelling or bleeding when brushing or flossing, visit your dentist for an evaluation.
How can I prevent periodontal disease?
Excellent home care practices can ward off gum disease in healthy patients. Brush at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once daily.
Call Greater Essex Dental
If you suspect you have any stage of gum disease, call our office for an appointment as soon as possible. Treatment could halt or even reverse gum disease in its earliest stages. Call Greater Essex Dental at 978-346-4610.