• Periodontal Care • Periodontal Disease • Treatment Methods • Osseous Surgery • Gum Grafting • Crown Lengthening • Bone Regeneration • Cosmetic Periodontal Surgery • Oral Pathology

PERIODONTAL CARE

Periodontal treatment is necessary when various conditions affect the health of your gums and the regions of your jawbone which hold your teeth in place. Retaining your teeth is directly dependent on proper periodontal care and maintenance. Healthy gums enhance the appearance of your teeth, like a frame around a beautiful painting. When your gums become unhealthy, they can either recede or become swollen and red. In later stages, the supporting bone is destroyed and your teeth will shift, loosen or fall out. These changes not only affect your ability to chew and speak; they also spoil your smile. In addition, recently links to general health have been established. It is generally accepted today that without good periodontal health, there can not be good general health. Here are a few health problems that can be aggravated by poor oral hygiene.

1. Stroke: Periodontitis causes an increased risk of stroke.
   
   
2. Respiratory Infections: Dental plaque buildup creates a dangerous source of bacteria that can be inhaled into the lungs.
   
   
3. Heart Disease: People with adult periodontitis have are more likely to be diagnosed with cardiovascular disease and have an increase risk of fatal heart attacks.
   
   
4. Severe Osteopenia: Reduction in bone mass is associated with gum disease and tooth loss. Post menopausal women are likely to have a more severe problem.
   
   
5. Uncontrolled Diabetes: Chronic periodontal disease can disrupt diabetic control. Diabetes can contribute to bacterial overgrowth. Smokers with diabetes increase the risk of tooth loss by twenty fold. People with type II diabetes are three times more likely to develop periodontal disease than diabetics.
   
   
6. Preterm or Low Birth weight babies. Women with advanced periodontitis may be more likely to give birth to an underweight or preterm baby. Oral microbes can cross the placental barrier, exposing the fetus to infection.