Periodontal Maintenance Salem OR When periodontal disease starts, it is almost invisible, and often goes unnoticed. This stage of periodontal disease, known as gingivitis, is characterized by red swollen gums. It is caused by the buildup of plaque (a sticky film that accumulates on your teeth) and oral bacteria, both of which irritate the tissue. The symptoms of gingivitis are often mistaken for brushing too hard and go untreated. Untreated periodontal disease only causes the condition to worsen. Eventually, you may experience gum recession, loose teeth, and tooth loss. Bacteria may even enter the bloodstream, which can contribute to serious health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. At Oak Park Dental, we can help to treat your periodontal disease with periodontal maintenance.What is Periodontal Maintenance?Periodontal maintenance is a treatment for periodontal disease that involves a series of scheduled visits. Typically, these visits occur every three months, but your exact schedule depends upon your specific months between visits.Periodontal maintenance visits are done following specific treatments for gum disease, usually scaling and root planing. During these visits, we thoroughly inspect the interior of your mouth, examining the condition of your teeth and gums. We measure your periodontal pockets, ensuring that they are becoming shallower (this ensures proper reattachment of your gum tissue to your teeth. We take X-rays, which allow us to examine the condition of your mouth below your gum line (the roots of your teeth and your jawbone). We will also clean your teeth of any plaque and other debris that may have accumulated between your visits. Scaling and Root PlaningScaling and root planing is a “deep clean” of your teeth. During this treatment, we focus on cleaning more than just the exposed surfaces of your teeth. We focus on the areas around your gums, as well as below them. Scaling involves the use of a specialized scaling tool to remove plaque, tartar, bacteria and other debris from the surfaces of your teeth and around the gum line. Root planing involves the use of thin tools that smooth the surfaces of the roots of your teeth, removing plaque, bacteria, and toxins. This helps to prevent new buildup from occurring. An antimicrobial agent is delivered under the gums to remove any lingering bacteria.Benefits of Periodontal MaintenanceThere are several benefits to periodontal maintenance:
Keeping Your Mouth HealthyPeriodontal maintenance helps to slow, and stop, the progression of gum disease, allowing your gums the chance they need to heal. However, these treatments alone are not enough to keep your mouth healthy. It is essential that you take steps to care for your mouth at home. This includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing every day. A diet rich in nutrient dense foods can help as well, providing your gums with the vitamins and minerals they need to fight off harmful oral bacteria.Periodontal disease is a serious oral health condition and requires treatment right away. If you have periodontal disease, contact Oak Park Dental today at (971) 600-0211. |
Serving Salem Keizer Community since 1987
We provide dental services for the entire family from children to older adults. Our entire team of caring Doctors, hygienists and support staff pride ourselves on a high level of patient care.
Using the latest in modern dental technology our services range from sealants to complex implant surgery. Our goal is a comfortable experience for our patients with beautiful results. Smile more :-) Call today (971) 600-0211 |
Located in the heart of the beautiful Willamette Valley.
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