Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is certainly not rare, and many people all throughout the Long Island area and the country find themselves battling some form of this disease in order to maintain their oral health and save natural teeth. The only way to stop periodontal disease in its tracks is to maintain a thorough oral hygiene routine that cares for both the teeth and gums in a way that preserves their level of health, but some special steps may be needed depending on just how the disease has progressed.
Periodontal disease first starts with the bacteria in the mouth, and due to the heat and moisture levels present in the mouth, this is a perfect home for all types of different bacteria. Bacteria, mucous, and food particles contribute to the formation of plaque on the teeth, which can be brushed and flossed away easily during your oral care routine, but if this plaque is left to harden, tartar will then be created which is much more difficult to remove.
Without proper removal by a dentist or other oral health care professional, this plaque and tarter will cause the gums to become inflamed and create a situation of gingivitis. Gingivitis is the very mild form of gum disease that exists before periodontal disease sets in, and it can often be easily reversed with daily brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist. However, should the gingivitis not be taken care of in time, it can then turn to periodontitis, or periodontal disease.
When a patient has periodontal disease, their gums begin to pull away from the tooth structure to form gaps where bacteria will harbor to form infection, and it is at this time when the body’s immune system will begin to take over. As this occurs, the plaque and bacteria will spread, and the combination of toxins and the body’s immune response will begin to break down the bone and tissue which keep teeth securely in their place.
When it comes to tackling periodontal disease, the number one priority should be controlling the infection as well as controlling further plaque damage in the mouth. At Island Dental Associates, we may give our Long Island area patients gels, rinses, or various other types of prescription oral care products in order to help them to control and put a stop to their periodontal disease as we help them to keep their natural teeth and a high level of oral health!
