Protecting your Smile from Gum Disease
Periodontal Care in Albuquerque, NM
Are you experiencing red, swollen, or bleeding gums? These could be signs of periodontal disease. Our periodontal care in Albuquerque, NM, can help address issues with your gums and improve your overall oral health.
Say goodbye to uncomfortable and unhealthy gum problems by trusting our gentle and effective periodontal treatment. Schedule an appointment with ABQ Gentle Dentistry today and take the first step towards a healthier smile.
What is Periodontal Care?
in Albuquerque
The term “periodontics” refers to the dental specialty of preventing, diagnosing, and treating periodontal disease that affects the gums and jawbone. The gum tissues surround and support the teeth, and the underlying jawbone anchors teeth firmly in place. With our quality periodontal care, we can help you maintain the function, health, and aesthetics of the jawbone and gum tissues.
A deep scaling is sometimes needed to remove the bacterial plaque and calculus (tartar) from the teeth and tissues. We may recommend more intensive cleaning when periodontal disease advances and the jawbone regresses significantly.
Treating Mild/Moderate Periodontal Problems
In the case of mild/moderate periodontal problems, our focus will be curing the underlying bacterial infection and then providing advice on the most appropriate home cleaning methods.
Because periodontal disease is progressive, it is essential to remove the bacteria and calculus build-up to halt the spread of the infection. We will gladly advise you on effective cleaning methods and treatment options.
Gum Disease Types
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is one condition that many people dread when it comes to oral health. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent and treat this common gum disease. Plaque build-up on your teeth can cause gingivitis, leading to inflamed and bleeding gums. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings can help prevent gingivitis from developing.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a severe gum disease that affects the tissues and bones that support teeth. Poor oral hygiene and untreated gingivitis can cause it. The disease progresses slowly and can damage the gums, teeth, and bone in the mouth, leading to tooth loss if left untreated. Symptoms include swollen and bleeding gums, bad breath, and tooth loss.
Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the severity of this disease and neglect to seek treatment until it’s too late. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits and scheduling regular dental check-ups is essential to prevent and treat periodontitis. Your smile and overall health depend on it.
Reasons for Periodontal Treatment
in Albuquerque
Periodontal disease generally begins when the bacteria living in plaque cause an infection in the surrounding tissues of the teeth, causing them to become irritated and painful. Eventually, this infection will cause the jawbone to recede and the tooth to become loose.
There are several reasons why periodontal treatment may be necessary:
- Moderate/advanced gum disease – This occurs when the gums are bleeding, swollen, or red around most teeth and the jawbone has begun to recede.
- Localized gum recession – The infection propagating moderate or advanced gum disease often begins in one area. Gum recession may also be caused by overbrushing with a stiff bristle brush or incorrectly positioned tooth. Immediate treatment is required to prevent further spreading.
- Before crown lengthening – Our team can lengthen the tooth’s crown by removing surrounding soft tissue to provide more tooth exposure.
- Ridge augmentation – This procedure, often called “recontouring,” may be required to correct an uneven gum line. Before starting treatment, we must treat any bacterial infections and periodontitis.
Periodontal Care in Albuquerque, NM
Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that begins with mild gum inflammation called gingivitis. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the developed world, and patients should take it very seriously. Periodontal disease (often called gum disease) is typically signified by red, swollen, painful, or bleeding gums, typically signify gum disease, but sometimes gum disease has no noticeable symptoms.
Regular dental appointments help Dr. Lafferty routinely monitor your smile for the potential development of gum disease. Contact us today to schedule your next cleaning and exam at ABQ Gentle Dentistry or any of our quality dental services in Albuquerque, New Mexico. These include cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry.
Schedule your Next Visit Today!
Regular dental appointments help Drs. Lafferty routinely monitor your smile for the potential development of gum disease. Call today to schedule your next cleaning and exam with our Albuquerque dentist.