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Prevention and Treatment of Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Premier Dentist in Pompano Beach, FL
Prevention and Treatment of Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Were you aware that nearly 50% of adults under 65 are affected by some stage of periodontal disease? For those over 65, this figure rises to 70%. Gum disease stands as the primary reason for tooth loss in adults. At the practice of Dr. Camille Dixon, we are dedicated to preventing tooth loss caused by gum disease.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an inflammatory condition that leads to the deterioration of the supporting bone, ligaments, and tissues that hold our teeth in place. This process is typically chronic, meaning it develops over the long term.
Several factors can contribute to this inflammation. These may range from poor oral hygiene and lack of professional dental care to smoking, as well as more systemic causes like diabetes and heart disease.
Medical professionals are now linking many chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, and some cancers, to persistent inflammation.
Maintaining Healthy Gums
Meet Dr. DixonFor individuals with healthy gums, dental cleanings are advised every six months. Healthy gums typically show no signs of redness, swelling (gingivitis), or deep periodontal pockets. Tartar, which is hardened dental plaque, is generally found above the gum line. Our team of skilled hygienists at the practice of Dr. Camille Dixon in Pompano Beach, FL can help you maintain your healthy smile!
Maintaining Healthy Gums
Gingivitis is the inflammation of your gums. Your gums can be red, puffy and bleed easily. It can be the very beginning of gum disease, and it is often reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care.
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
- Smoking
- Poor nutrition and obesity
- Medication
- Age
- Chronic inflammatory diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and rheumatoid arthritis
- Genetics
- Stress
Personalized
Dental Solutions
At Village View Dental, we offer a full range of personalized dental services designed to restore comfort, function, and confidence at every stage of life.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth Whitening
At Village View Dental, we offer a full range of personalized dental services designed to restore comfort, function, and confidence at every stage of life.
Crowns & Bridges
Crowns & Bridges
At Village View Dental, we offer a full range of personalized dental services designed to restore comfort, function, and confidence at every stage of life.
Gum Disease Treatment
Gum Disease Treatment
At Village View Dental, we offer a full range of personalized dental services designed to restore comfort, function, and confidence at every stage of life.
Implant Overdentures
Implant Overdentures
At Village View Dental, we offer a full range of personalized dental services designed to restore comfort, function, and confidence at every stage of life.
What Happens to My Teeth and Gums if I Have Gum Disease?
When the supporting bone, ligaments, and tissues that secure our teeth begin to deteriorate, deeper periodontal pockets can form. This leads to a loss of the bone that anchors the teeth, potential gum recession, and teeth that may become loose and eventually be lost.
How Can Gum Disease be Treated?
There are several ways to treat and manage gum disease. For someone in the initial stages of this condition, scaling and root planing (deep cleanings) can be performed at the Village View Dental office by our team of hygienists. The plaque and tartar in the deeper pockets are cleaned out using ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments. We irrigate the gums and pockets with anti-bacterial medication, and often, an antibiotic powder is injected into the deep pockets.
Once a patient is diagnosed with periodontal disease, it is important to be seen for a periodontal maintenance cleaning every 3-4 months.
For someone with moderate to advanced periodontal disease, Dr. Camille Dixon will refer you to a specialist for more specialized treatment, such as laser therapy and gum surgery. Together, a customized treatment plan will be created to help you achieve and maintain a return to health.
How Can Gum Disease be Treated?
Whether you’re accustomed to visiting a dentist every six months or it’s been years since your last appointment, we are here to assist you. You can schedule online, email us, or call us at 954-953-5656.