Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Fortunately, it’s also preventable. Through routine preventative cleanings and checkups, we can identify the early warning signs to stop gum disease as early as possible. For gum disease treatment in Rohnert Park, contact our team.
Gum Disease Symptoms
Although symptoms vary depending on your health and lifestyle factors (such as smoking), the periodontal disease typically presents itself as:
- Receding gumlines
- Spaces between teeth
- Heavy tartar buildup
- Halitosis
- Tooth mobility
- Sensitive teeth (due to exposed roots)
- Bleeding, red, or swollen gum tissues
How Gum Disease Forms
Periodontal disease begins as gingivitis, which is the initial inflammation and redness that you see along your gums. Gingivitis is caused by plaque buildup along the gumlines, usually because of a lapse in flossing or inadequate brushing.
Over time, plaque calcifies into tartar or calculus deposits and the body continues to react to those bacterial colonies. Only now instead of just mild irritation, the gums begin to detach from the root of the tooth physically. This process creates a “periodontal pocket” under the gums, which coincidentally also triggers bone loss immediately adjacent to it. As pockets get deeper, so does the buildup. The more severe the pocket depth is, the greater the risk there is of losing your tooth. We will use special instruments to measure your pocket depth and evaluate bone loss on periodic dental X-rays.
Periodontal Infections And Overall Health
The strong link between your oral and systemic health plays a key role in your body’s immune response and overall inflammation. Numerous research studies have found that chronic gum disease can directly raise your risk of suffering from a heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled diabetes, pneumonia, and infertility (both men and women are affected.)
When your mouth is infected, bacteria can spread through bleeding gum tissues directly into your cardiovascular system. This increased bacterial load causes inflammation and activates your immune system, making it more difficult for your body to manage co-existing medical conditions.
Fortunately, studies also show that treating active gum disease can positively improve overall wellness within just a few months.
Laser Treatment For Periodontal Disease
Sonoma Smiles offers state-of-the-art laser periodontal therapy to provide the best results and recovery for our patients. In combination with a series of deep cleanings, laser pocket therapy helps reduce bacterial load to promote enhanced healing and tissue reattachment.
The earlier you treat periodontal infections, the less chance there is for the disease to spread into adjacent teeth or result in tooth loss.
Do I Have Gum Disease?
If your gums bleed when you floss, you notice food getting caught between your teeth after each meal, or your teeth and gums are always sore, it’s time to reserve an exam. Contact our Rohnert Park dentist today to schedule a periodontal evaluation.
