The health of your smile depends on maintaining proper oral hygiene, yet gum disease cannot be prevented by brushing and flossing alone. Gum disease affects millions of people annually and is one of the most common causes of adult tooth loss. If not treated, it can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss. But periodontal treatment in Tampa can help you avoid such severe consequences and keep your natural teeth for as long as possible.
How Periodontal Treatment Helps Preserve Teeth
Periodontal therapy is significant in the avoidance of gum disease and tooth loss. Among the best treatments are:
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a cleaning process to remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline. It is a non-surgical process that smooths the roots of teeth so no more bacteria will build up in the future. With infection removal and the encouragement of gum reattachment, scaling and root planing can salvage teeth which may otherwise have to be removed.
Antibacterial Therapy
For patients who have moderately to severely gum-infected patients, antibacterial therapy such as medicated mouthwash or local antibiotics is prescribed. They regulate bacterial activity and help in the healing process after deep cleaning therapy.
Gum Grafting
When gum recession has uncovered the roots of the teeth, gum grafting can replace missing gum tissue. Not only does this enhance the aesthetic appeal of the gums, but it also shields the roots from decay and sensitivity and helps prevent tooth loss.
Pocket Reduction Surgery
When periodontal pockets are too deep to clean properly, pocket reduction surgery might be suggested. This operation deepens the pockets by relocating the gum tissue, making good oral hygiene more manageable and infections less likely to occur.
Bone Grating
For advanced periodontitis, bone is lost, which weakens the support of teeth. Bone grafting procedures will restore lost bone and strengthen jawbone physics to allow better stability of present teeth and improve chances for future restorative procedures, including implantation.
The Connection Between Gum Health and Overall Health
Periodontal diseases not only cause problems in teeth but also affect overall systemic health. Research indicates that the disease processes of the gum can put a person at an increased risk of having cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Moreover, inflammation from periodontal disease leads to general health problems, which makes treating the condition in a timely manner even more vital.
Opting for periodontal treatment means extending your life, ensuring teeth safety, and keeping off serious health complications. Healthy gums imply a better quality of life and really good health.
Tips to Prevent Gum Disease and Tooth Loss
Although professional periodontal care is essential for individuals with gum disease, prevention is always better. Here are some tips to maintain healthy gums and teeth:
- Brush and Floss Every Day: Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss once a day to clean between teeth and remove plaque and food particles.
- Use an Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Rinse using an antibacterial mouthwash to minimize bacteria and plaque formation.
- Practice Regular Dental Visits: Go see your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups to detect early symptoms of gum disease.
- Stop Smoking: Smoking compromises the immune system and puts one at a higher risk for periodontal disease.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet with high levels of vitamins and minerals promotes gum health and minimizes the chance of infection.
Visit Prosthodontics and Implant Therapy Today!
If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease or want to take proactive steps to protect your oral health, schedule a consultation with a trusted dentist in Tampa. At Prosthodontics and Implant Therapy, we specialize in comprehensive periodontal care to help our patients maintain healthy smiles for a lifetime. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your dental health and prevent tooth loss.