Maintain Healthy Gums with Conservative and Effective Periodontal Therapy

No matter how strong your teeth are, they are at risk if you have gum disease. Periodontal disease affects the gums and the surrounding tissues, causing bone degradation and eventual tooth loss. Our Town Dental emphasizes prevention, but we understand gum disease can sneak into your oral health. Dr. Jihae Yang offers periodontal therapy in Peterborough, New Hampshire, to ensure you maintain optimal gum health. If you suspect gum disease, schedule an appointment immediately for prompt action. 

How does gum disease develop?

Gum disease is a silent troublemaker. In its early stage, the disease doesn’t cause pain or obvious symptoms until it is advanced. Although several factors can cause periodontal disease, the main cause is plaque. Failure to brush and floss your teeth properly causes food debris to mix with harmful bacteria and saliva to form dental plaque (oral biofilm). Over time, the bacteria in the plaque irritates the gums, causing redness, swelling, and tenderness. The gums may also bleed easily, especially when flossing and brushing.  

The early stage of gum disease (gingivitis) is reversible. However, if you do nothing about it, the harmful bacteria attack the gingival tissues, causing your gums to pull away (recede) from your teeth. This causes deep periodontal pockets to form, which become favorite hiding spots for bacteria and tartar (calcified plaque).

Gum disease doesn’t stop here. When left to thrive, it attacks the teeth-supporting structures, causing loose teeth that eventually fall out. Worse yet, uncontrolled gum disease causes “inflammation overload,” increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic conditions.

How is gum disease treated?

We always take a conservative approach to gum disease treatment. Gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene and standard cleanings. However, deep teeth cleaning is usually the go-to procedure if gum disease is past the gingivitis stage and doesn’t need surgery. This two-pronged treatment uses root scaling to remove harmful deposits from the deep periodontal pockets. Then, the dentist uses root planing to smooth the tooth roots, making it difficult for harmful bacteria to attach in the future. Although non-surgical, scaling and root planing (SRP) leave patients with swollen gums and several days of healing.

Our office uses laser dentistry to treat mild to severe gum disease. Instead of scalpels and drills, the dentist uses a focused beam of light to target the diseased tissues. The laser energy breaks away the plaque deposits and zaps away harmful bacteria. Periodontal laser therapy eliminates harmful substances so the gums can return to optimal health.

Can I prevent periodontal disease?

Prevention is the best way to keep your gums healthy. It’s simple, cost-effective, and helps you avoid the discomfort and complications of gum disease. Here are some essential tips to keep your gums healthy and vibrant:

  • Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth twice daily
  • Floss at least once daily, especially before bedtime
  • Adhere to bi-annual dental cleanings and check-ups
  • Eat a well-balanced diet, and limit the intake of sugar
  • Manage immune-suppressing conditions like diabetes and HIV/Aids
  • Avoid tobacco products
  • Keep your mouth hydrated to avoid dry mouth (xerostomia)
  • Manage stress because it can weaken your immunity

Do you need periodontal therapy?

Healthy gums don’t bleed, look tender, or pull away from your teeth. Do you miss your healthy gums? Call (603) 567-4955 and schedule an appointment with Our Town Dental for periodontal care. Soon, your gums will appear healthy, firm, and snugly wrapped around your teeth, giving you a confident and vibrant smile.