Periodontal Maintenance
Among the causes for periodontal (gum) disease are genetic susceptibility, smoking, and other illnesses like diabetes. Periodontal maintenance involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. When you have active periodontal disease, the typical routines of home maintenance – including daily dental hygiene and teeth brushing – may not be effective enough, as those methods generally focus on areas of the tooth that are above the gum-line.
But with regular scaling and root planing procedures, we can remove the build-up of plaque, tartar (calculus) and bacterial toxins (biofilms) from tooth surfaces below the gum line, which are the areas that general home care practices are unable to reach.
Gingivitis may be caused by a number of factors that include:
• Diabetes.
• Smoking.
• Aging.
• A disease.
• Stress.
• Genetic predisposition.
• Pregnancy.
• Hormonal fluctuations.
• Infection.
• Medication use.
FAQ
What is Periodontal Disease?
It is important to know that Gum Disease (also known as ‘Periodontitis’) can take many forms. Each form presents us with different levels of severity. If left untreated, severe periodontitis can eventually lead to tooth loss and other potential health problems.
What is Gingivitis?
The most common form of periodontal disease is called ‘Gingivitis.’ Gingivitis causes your gums to become red and swollen. Because of this, they may also tend to bleed easily. However, at this stage of progression, you may only be experiencing little or even no discomfort. Gingivitis is usually caused by an inadequate oral hygiene regimen. It is usually reversible with professional treatment and good oral hygiene habits such as regular brushing and flossing.