Periodontal disease is a serious dental condition which requires early diagnosis and immediate
treatment to avoid the loss of gum tissue, bone, and natural teeth. This disease can be extremely
devastating to the smile, and can cause irreversible damage. When patients suspect periodontal
disease is beginning, they are encouraged to seek assistance with the dental team such at Vanguard
Dental. Dr. Kanorwalla and her staff work hard to educate patients about the negative effects of
periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). However, when it occurs, treatment by a periodontist
is necessary to reverse and control the problem.
Periodontal disease is usually caused by poor oral health care. Patients who do not regularly brush and floss are at higher risk, as well as those who do not see their dentist every six months to monitor for problems. Bacteria can cause an infection within the mouth, which results in redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. This stage of periodontal disease is called gingivitis. If not addressed early, it can continue to cause the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth. That results in pockets where bacteria, plaque, and tartar continue to develop, eating away at the tooth enamel and roots of the teeth. The bone underneath disintegrates, and teeth become loose and fall out without the support necessary to stay in place.
There are several treatments to address periodontal disease. When the initial stage (gingivitis) is present, patients are given a thorough dental cleaning. This professional cleaning helps in removing tartar, and antibiotics may be used to address areas of infection. For more severe cases, scaling and root planing, gum flap surgery, or a gingival graft may be necessary. Lost bone may be improved with bone grafting. This is especially important for patients who have lost teeth and are considering dental implants as a restorative solution after the periodontal disease has been controlled.
There are several ways in which a dentist can help patients in maintaining a healthy smile for life. It is essential that patients visit Dr. Kanorwalla regularly for early detection of problems that could result in costly treatments.
Vanguard Dental also takes care of families in Belchertown, Wilbraham, Palmer, Hampden, Ludlow, East Longmeadow, Chicopee, Sixteen Acres, Indian Orchard, and Granby.
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