A comprehensive approach to periodontal infection halts the disease and develops a healthy mouth.

Our in-house periodontal services (gum treatments) may be a necessary part of your oral health care. More than 50% of the adult population has some level of gum disease, which generally occurs when bacteria is caught between the tooth and gum. These bacteria slowly destroy the structure that supports your teeth and will eventually lead to a loss of teeth.

The Technicals

Your gum tissue is not attached to the teeth as high as it may seem. There is a very shallow v-shaped crevice called a sulcus between the tooth and gums. Periodontal diseases attack just below the gum line in the sulcus, where they cause the attachment of the tooth and its supporting tissues to break down. As the tissues are damaged, the sulcus develops into a pocket: generally, the more severe the disease, the greater the depth of the pocket.

Periodontal diseases are classified according to the severity of the disease. The two major stages are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a milder and reversible form of periodontal disease that only affects the gums. Whereas Gingivitis may lead to more serious, destructive forms of periodontal disease called periodontitis.

(American Dental Association, 2006)

These factors increase the risk of developing periodontal disease:

• Tobacco smoking or chewing
• Systemic diseases such as diabetes
• Some types of medication such as steroids, some types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers and oral contraceptives
• Bridges that no longer fit properly
• Crooked teeth
• Fillings that have become defective
• Pregnancy or use of oral contraceptives
• Several warning signs that can signal a problem:
• Gums that bleed easily
• Red, swollen, tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste
• Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
• Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Any change in the fit of partial dentures

Warning Signs?

It is possible to have periodontal disease and have no warning signs. That is one reason why regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are very important.

Treatment?

Treatment methods depend upon the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed. Good oral hygiene at home is essential (and inexpensive) to help keep periodontal disease from becoming more serious or recurring. You don’t have to lose teeth to periodontal disease. Brush, clean between your teeth, eat a balanced diet, and seriously,  schedule regular dental visits for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Schedule dental visits for you and your family today by calling The Right Smile Center in Sandy Springs at 404-256-3620 or in Chamblee at 770-455-6076. Our dental office is conveniently located on Carpenter Drive in Sandy Springs, and we serve patients from Sandy Springs, Chamblee, Brookhaven, Roswell, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Buckhead, Marietta, East Cobb and surrounding communities. We welcome new patients and will be happy to answer all of your questions over the phone or in person. Our dentists and team look forward to making you, and your loved ones, smile!