Periodontal

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Periodontal health refers to the structures that support your teeth, including your gums, the periodontal ligament, the tooth root covering (cementum), and the jawbone that holds your teeth in place. Maintaining healthy gums and supporting structures is essential for keeping your teeth stable and functional.

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease or periodontitis, is a chronic condition caused by the buildup of plaque—a sticky layer of bacteria and food debris on your teeth. If plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which must be professionally cleaned by a dentist.

When untreated, periodontal disease can lead to inflamed gums and infection that may affect your teeth, nerves, and jawbone. Its severity can range from mild gum irritation to advanced periodontitis. Keeping your teeth and gums clean is key to preventing damage and supporting overall health.

• Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can lead to a buildup of plaque and tartar.
• Genetics: Some people are more likely to develop periodontal disease than others.
• Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as diabetes and HIV, can increase your risk of developing periodontal disease.
• Smoking: Smoking can damage the gums and make them more susceptible to infection.
• Hormonal changes: Women are more likely to develop periodontal disease during pregnancy and menopause.

Periodontal disease can be treated with a variety of methods, including:

• Professional cleaning: Your dentist can remove plaque and tartar from your teeth.
• Scaling and root planing: This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
• Antibiotics: If the infection is severe, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue and bone.

 The best way to prevent periodontitis is with regular checkups with your dentist at TLC Family Dental. We provide services to help minimize the effect of periodontitis by stopping it and strengthening your oral hygiene. If your mouth has damage due to periodontal disease, we have the solutions to repair and reconstruct the smile you deserve.