Periodontal Maintenance in Montclair, NJ
Dental Cleanings Fight Off Gum Disease
Gum or periodontal disease is a common inflammatory condition affecting the tissues supporting your teeth. It begins with bacterial plaque buildup that can cause infections in the gums. Over time, untreated gum disease can result in bone and tooth loss. Hence, staying ahead with proper oral hygiene and professional periodontal maintenance is important.
Daily brushing and flossing are your first line of defense. Routine professional cleanings can also play a role in removing plaque and tartar from areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Periodontal maintenance is necessary for those with a history of gum disease to prevent future complications.
Why Periodontal Maintenance and Oral Hygiene Matters
Adults over 35 lose more teeth to periodontal disease than to cavities. Three out of four adults will experience some form of gum disease at some point in their lives. Keeping your gums and teeth healthy requires proper oral hygiene habits. Examples of such habits include brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits.
Both periodontal disease and tooth decay stem from bacterial plaque. This sticky, colorless film constantly forms on teeth, especially near the gumline. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar. Only a dental professional can remove this tartar by cleaning it. The longer tartar stays on your teeth, the greater the gum inflammation and infection risk.
Factors That Affect Gum Health
While plaque buildup is the leading cause of gum disease, other factors can increase your risk:
- Smoking: Reduces oxygen in the bloodstream, making it harder for gums to heal.
- Diabetes: Affects blood circulation and immune response, making gums more vulnerable to infection.
- Stress: Weakens the body’s ability to fight infections, including gum disease.
- Clenching and Grinding Teeth: Puts excessive pressure on the gums and supporting structures.
- Medications: Certain medications can reduce saliva flow. This leads to a dry mouth and increased plaque accumulation.
- Poor Nutrition: Lacking basic nutrients weakens the immune system and affects gum tissue health.
How Periodontal Disease Develops
When plaque bacteria release toxins, they irritate the gums, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding. In its early stage— known as gingivitis—this condition is reversible with proper care. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis. Gums will pull away from teeth and form deep pockets that trap bacteria.
As periodontitis worsens, the supporting structures of your teeth—including the bone—begin to deteriorate. This can lead to loose teeth or even tooth loss. Without professional treatment, periodontal disease will continue to advance. It can affect your oral health and also increase your risk of systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Preventing
Gum Disease
The best way to prevent gum disease is through proper brushing, flossing, and routine professional care. However, even with the most consistent home routine, some people are more prone to developing gum disease and require additional professional intervention.
We offer specialized treatments for different stages of gum disease:
- Full Mouth Debridement: For patients with severe tartar buildup, this deep cleaning removes hardened deposits to restore gum health.
- Scaling and Root Planing: Also known as gum therapy, this treatment smooths tooth roots and removes deep plaque buildup.
- Periodontal Maintenance: Patients with a history of gum disease require more frequent professional cleanings to keep bacteria under control.
Ongoing Care for Lasting Oral Health
At Edgemont Dental, we help our patients maintain optimal oral health through personalized care. If you have been treated for gum disease, regular periodontal maintenance is key to keep your gums in good shape and prevent relapse.
Beyond periodontal care, we offer preventive dental cleanings, cosmetic treatments like veneers and whitening, and restorative dentistry. Need routine care or advanced dental treatments? Our team is here to support your long-term oral health.
Schedule your next periodontal maintenance visit today. Keep your gums strong for years to come.
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