When you combine diligent at-home dental care with professional dental cleanings, you give your smile the best chance of enduring for years to come. Cleaning your mouth isn’t just about preventing cavities in your teeth—in fact preventing and treating periodontal disease is equally important for long-term oral health.
Today our Elmhurst dentist office has prepared an overview of periodontal disease—what it is and how it affects patients. Many patients have an incomplete idea of what periodontal disease is, and thus they don’t prioritize periodontal treatment. I hope that after you read this blog, you’ll feel more confident recognizing gum disease in your own life, and talking about it with your dentist!
Most people know that periodontal disease is also known as gum disease. Clearly, people suffering from periodontal disease deal with infected gum tissue—you may notice that it’s prone to swelling and bleeding.
However, periodontal disease actually refers to the inflammation and infection of any oral tissues that support the teeth. This consists of gum tissue, and also…
· The exterior portion of a tooth’s root—this is called the cementum
· The bone that holds the tooth in place
· The connective tissues that hold teeth in place
This is why, when a patient suffers from long-term periodontal disease, a patient may experience tooth loss and bone deterioration. These oral infections can spread throughout the mouth and undermine the entire structure of the teeth, gums, and jawbone.
If you notice common symptoms of periodontal disease—these include bad breath, loose teeth, and bleeding gum tissue—let your dentist know right away. With prompt treatment you can avoid many of the most severe consequences of periodontal disease.
Give our Elmhurst dentist office a call to learn more about this condition and treatment options. Schedule your consultation by calling our office or clicking here!