Gum Disease
Gum disease is an infection that affects the gums and jawbone, which can lead to a loss of gum and teeth. If left alone, the bacteria will build up on your teeth and irritate the gums. Also called periodontal disease, research has shown that this chronic inflammatory disease is treatable.
Dentistry on Sinclair offers the Active Therapy Program to treat gum disease.
The goals of this program are to:
- avoid surgical intervention
- avoid gum and/or tooth loss
- prevent progression of this disease
- prevent recurrence of this destructive disease
- monitor gum tissue health
Treatments for gum disease include:
Professional dental cleaning. During a typical checkup your dental hygienist will remove the plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line of all of your teeth. When gum disease is present your hygienist will recommend more frequent cleanings.
Scaling and root planing. This is a deep cleaning performed under local anastehsic. Plaque and tartar from above and below the gum are scaped away (scaling) and rough spots are smoothed (planing). This removes the bacteria and provides a clean surface for the gums to reattach to the teeth.
Education. Education is key in controlling gum disease. Home care will be reviewed with you and your hygienist will provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to maintain good oral health.
