It is estimated that more than half of adults over the age of 30 have some form of periodontal disease.

Periodontal or gum disease is caused by a buildup of bacteria, or plaque, at the gumline. Plaque eventually hardens into tartar, and when tartar is not removed, it can lead to an infection that may eventually break down the gum tissue and spread to the underlying bone. In extreme cases, teeth can loosen and fall out. Bacteria can also enter the bloodstream through the gums and lead to other serious health problems.

Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and new research is exploring possible links between this gum disease and diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other serious ailments.

Good oral hygiene can help prevent gum disease, but regular dental check-ups are essential to early detection, especially in those with a family history of the disease.

PerioProtect

One way to treat periodontal disease is through medication. The team at Deck Dentidtry is proud to provide PerioProtect as a method of delivering the medication patients need to treat their periodontal disease effectively, and comfortably. This is one more example of how Deck Dentistry uses the most up-to-date technology to offer comfortable, thorough dental treatments.

PerioProtect are patented, prescription trays that deliver medication deep into the gums, using a customized sealing system that allows medication to reach down into the periodontal pockets – areas that are hard to reach with a toothbrush or floss.

Bone grafting

Patients with advanced periodontal disease that has impacted their jawbone are often presented with the option to use bone grafts as a restoration option to repair the bone structure. A bone graft is used to recreate bone and soft supporting tissues lost due to gum disease. The goal of this surgery is to coax the body into rebuilding the bone and other structures that attach a tooth to the jaw.

After the graft is properly positioned, the gums will be put back over the treated site and stitched into place. The site also may be covered with a bandage known as a periodontal dressing. During the next six to nine months, the body fills in the area with new bone and soft tissue. In effect, this reattaches the tooth to the jaw.

We offer the latest treatments for periodontal disease, but we always stress the importance of prevention. To ensure the health of your gums, contact our office for an appointment and be sure to make brushing and flossing part of your oral health care routine.