Dr. Mark Hodge runs Berkshire Dental Group in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Here, he explains what periodontal therapy is.
In addition to the meticulous cleaning, polishing, and examination of your teeth, here at Berkshire Dental Group we also take the time to help our patients develop proper oral hygiene habits at home. We evaluate your hygiene techniques and suggest adjustments to your routine where needed. Our doctors and hygienists also make suggestions for preventative measures such as dental sealants or nightguards to protect you against bruxism and TMJ.
If we feel that you are suffering from gingivitis or more severe gum disease, we may recommend periodontal therapy. This measure can be instrumental in preventing bone loss and helping you keep your natural teeth. It is a non-surgical procedure where the hygienist removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. Root surfaces are cleaned and smoothed with specially designed instruments. In addition, the procedure may include site-specific antibiotics and/or a dental laser.
It is important to remove the plaque and tartar from the teeth because they make the bacterial toxins that cause gum disease. Research shows that uncontrolled gum disease can increase your risk of heart disease, hypertension, stroke, and diabetes. Warning signs of gum disease include bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, past gum disease, gum pockets, and gum recessions.
As an Invisalign specialist, I must mention that patients with crooked teeth often neglect to floss, which can lead to gum disease. Sometimes the teeth are just too crooked to comfortably insert floss. With Invisalign, you can get the beautiful smile you’ve always dreamed of without the social stigma of braces and help yourself be gum disease-free.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
