People focus on their dental health because everybody wants beautiful teeth to complement their smile. The foundation of your smile is your gums, which may need additional treatment to regain health and prevent tooth loss.
Periodontal Care Helps People who are At Risk of Gum Disease
Periodontists work hand in hand with dentists to help patients maintain oral health. A periodontist has the specialized skills necessary to treat people with at-risk factors of gum disease. Here are a few of the reasons you may need to see a periodontist:
- People with diabetes
- Those who use tobacco products
- Those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment
- People who are taking medications that dry out the mouth
- Those with a history of drug use
Stages of Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, and the symptoms are redness, swelling, and bleeding while brushing your teeth. A renewed commitment to daily brushing, flossing, and a professional hygiene appointment can often reverse this stage of gum disease in a matter of weeks.
When gum disease advances to periodontitis, you have a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth that cause chronic bad breath, toothaches, and gum recession. Teeth may begin to loosen and shift out of place as deep pockets of bacterial infection damage gums and cause bone loss.
Several Treatments for Gum Disease
A periodontist has intensive therapies, surgeries, and treatments for gum disease that can halt its progression and help you prevent tooth loss. Tooth scaling and root planing are very common treatments, but other methods such as laser treatments and gum surgery can also be used effectively.
When you need your dental and gum health maintained, contact the friendly office of King of Prussia Periodontics & Dental Implants. We treat all aspects of your oral health, so you can maintain a smile that lasts a lifetime. Call today!