Do Your Gums Need a Dentist?
Did you know that nearly half of all adults aged 30 years or older have signs of gum disease? Gum disease is a common but very serious oral health condition if it progresses. Fortunately, periodontal disease is preventable and easily treated if caught at its early stages. At Alora Dentistry, we can treat gum disease from mild (gingivitis) to moderate and severe (periodontitis).
Are You a Candidate for Periodontal Therapy?
You may benefit from one of our periodontal treatments if you suffer from the following common gum disease problems:
- “Long” teeth (due to receding gum lines)
- Discolored or deteriorating tooth structure
- Gum depressions or pockets in between the teeth
- Infected gum line (discoloration or inflammation of the gum tissue)
- Tooth movement or tooth loss
Treatment for Periodontitis
Gum disease is a chronic oral infection that will continue to progress unless proper treatment is initiated. Periodontitis, a more advanced stage of gum disease, is considered an active infection within the soft tissues of your mouth. This infection can destroy the surrounding bone and even cause inflammatory conditions throughout your body. It is imperative that you seek treatment for periodontitis, which can include minimally invasive techniques that can safely restore the long-term health of your smile. Our dentists often recommend a scaling and root planing (or deep cleaning) as the first line of defense against periodontitis.
What is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is often called a “deep cleaning.” It is a simple, in-office procedure that involves removing stubborn plaque and calculus deposits from beneath the gum line. Since plaque is the primary culprit to gum disease, this is an essential step towards preventing its progression. After thoroughly cleaning the gum pockets, the rough surfaces of the teeth are smoothed out so that the gum tissues can more easily reattach. A scaling and root planing can help reduce periodontal pocket depths up to two or three millimeters.
If you are concerned about your swollen, bleeding or receding gums, please call Alora Dentistry in Napa Valley to learn more about our treatment options for gum disease. We are a comprehensive dental practice that is dedicated to your smile and overall well-being through all stages of life.