What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth. The main cause of periodontal disease is bacterial plaque- a sticky, colorless microbial film that forms on your teeth.

When plaque isn’t removed every day by brushing and flossing, it attaches to your teeth as a rough, porous substance known as tarter. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque then irritate the gums, leading to infection, and in more severe cases, tooth loss.

Known as the primary cause of tooth loss in American adults, gum disease may first be recognized through red, swollen, or bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, sensitive teeth, or tooth loss.

How We Treat Periodontal Disease

Scaling and Root Planing: One treatment that is highly effective against gum disease is scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleanings. Scaling and root planing removed debris (tarter and calculus) and bacteria from below the gumline in order to restore health to the gum tissue.

Surgical Treatments: If the case is severe enough, a referral to a periodontal specialist may be recommended to determine need for tissue grafting.

Don't Put Your Health at Risk

Recent studies show that an estimated one out of two American adults over 30 years of age have periodontal disease. The risk of the disease has also been found to be associated with may other health problems. If you ignore the condition of your oral health, you may be at risk for other systemic diseases such as:
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Respiratory disease
  • Blood clots and stroke
  • Alzheimers

The Importance of Brushing and Flossing

At Kauffmann and Sims Dentistry, we want our patients to maintain good oral health through proper home care with consistent flossing and thorough brushing. By doing so, patients are able to remove unwanted plaque below the gum line that can help prevent infection or gum disease.