Gum Disease
Periodontal disease, better known as gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. A potentially serious condition, gum disease is also linked to many other health risks.
The best dentistry is always preventative. Doctor Kim Daxon carefully screen each patient for gum disease as well as treat patients who have all forms of gum disease.
The mouth is a gateway to the body – gum disease contributes to a number of heath risks:
- Inflammation
- Osteoporosis
- Heart Disease
- Stroke
- Pregnancy-Related Problems
- Diabetes
- Respiratory Disease
- Systemic Diseases
What causes gum disease?
Periodontal diseases, including gingivitis and gum disease, are mainly caused by bacterial plaque buildup. There are a number of other causes including smoking or tobacco use, stress, pregnancy, hormonal changes, certain medications, teeth grinding, diabetes, systemic disease, poor nutrition and obesity. Warning signs or symptoms of gum disease may include:
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Mouth pain
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Sores in the mouth
- Persistent bad breath
- Changes in your bite
- Changes in the fit of your dentures
How is gum disease treated?
Dr. Daxon always tries to choose the most conservative treatment options for their patients. If identified early, treatment for gum disease can be very minimal. In some cases, however, surgical treatment may be required especially if tooth loss has occurred.
Non-Surgical Treatment for Gum Disease
Least invasive and most cost-effective, non-surgical treatments for gum disease are the preferred treatment option. These include scaling and root planing – careful cleaning of the root surfaces and periodontal pockets.
Periodontal Surgery
In some cases, surgery is required to restore health to your gums. Surgical treatments include pocket reduction, regenerative procedures, crown lengthening and tissue grafts. Dr. Daxon use dental lasers to aid in their treatment of gum disease. Safe and effective, dental lasers simultaneously remove diseased tissue and disinfect the area to stop the spread of future disease.
Dental Implants
If you have missing teeth because of gum disease, you may be a candidate for dental implants. With a success rate of 95%, dental implants offer a permanent solution for missing teeth. Learn More
How to Prevent Gum Disease
Gum disease can be prevented by having a regular oral health routine that includes brushing and flossing and routine visits to the dentist. Schedule your consultation with Daxon Dentistry to screen for gum disease and establish your oral health routine. Contact us today!
