Periodontics
Gums are the unsung hero of the smile. Even though gums serve as a protective barrier against bacteria by forming a tight seal around the teeth, they are often neglected and vulnerable. Because of poor oral hygiene, over 40% of adults aged 30 and older have some form of gum disease. At Amigos Dental Care, Dr. Todd Petersen and Dr. Tad Tholstrom improve health and help manage gum disease through periodontic services, including dental deep cleaning and bone grafting.
What is gum disease, and how can it impact my overall health?
Gum (periodontal) disease is a prevalent yet preventable condition caused by bacterial overgrowth in the mouth. An accumulation of dental plaque and tartar triggers gum disease. This ailment starts as a gum infection (gingivitis), which our dental team can, fortunately, reverse through dental deep cleanings and diligent oral hygiene routines. But by ignoring puffy gums, bleeding, and other early signs of gum disease, gingivitis can swiftly transform into a multi-stage disease that can damage gum tissue, loosen teeth, and destroy the supporting ligaments and jawbone. Aside from ruining the smile, chronic periodontal disease can impact the rest of the body by aggravating systemic disease, including:
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Metabolic syndrome
- Respiratory disease
- Kidney disease
- Cardiovascular disease
- Cancer
Gum Disease Treatment is Highly Individualized
Luckily, gingivitis and periodontal disease are preventable through adequate oral hygiene, such as brushing twice daily, flossing every day, and biannual dental check-ups and cleanings. Healthy gums do not easily bleed and look pink and firm.
Even if you care for your pearly whites, it’s essential to understand the signs of gum disease and seek treatment immediately if you suspect your smile is at risk. The sooner one receives treatment, the better the chance of beating this disease. The classic signs of gingivitis include:
- Puffy, swollen gums
- Tenderness
- Inflammation
- Bleed easily after brushing or flossing
As the disease worsens, symptoms unsurprisingly worsen. Periodontal disease can lead to:
- Tartar build-up
- Deepened gum pockets
- Receding gumlines
- Loose teeth
Generally, Dr. Petersen and Dr. Tholstrom prescribe periodontal disease and gingivitis treatment based on presented symptoms. At our Salt Lake City family dental office, Amigos Dental Care offers proven surgical and non-surgical periodontal therapy to address the effects of gum disease for patients, such as:
Keep Gums Healthy with Salt Lake City Periodontic Services
Have you experienced swollen, sore, or bleeding gums lately? If so, it could be a sign of gingivitis or periodontal disease. Don’t let gingivitis or periodontal disease take control of your smile, and discover how Dr. Petersen and Dr. Tholstrom can better your gum health by calling (385) 295-1601 or messaging Amigos Dental Care online.
