Importance Of Regular Check Ups
Gum disease, officially referred to as periodontal disease, is a common problem. Periodontal disease is an infection affecting gum tissue and bone tissue around your teeth. It can cause a variety of problems throughout your mouth. Gum disease has been linked to several more serious health issues as well. Your semi-annual check up is an important part of avoiding gum disease. At your regular check up, your dentist will be able to spot any periodontal disease in the early stages of development.
What Treatments Are Available?
Your dentist has a variety of options to recommend based upon your specific situation:
- Scaling and root planing: This process cleans out the hidden tartar and plaque that is built up in hidden pockets of the gums. In some cases, the dentist will perform a treatment called planing in which he will smooth the surface of the root of your tooth and remove any calcified bacteria.
- Antibiotics: In some cases, your dentist will prescribe medications that can provide non-surgical treatment of gum disease. The medication will eliminate the bacterial infection so that the gum tissue will have an opportunity to heal.
- Surgical periodontal therapy: This treatment is reserved for times that the dentist must remove plaque and tartar that is not reacting to basic periodontal treatments.
Warning Signs Of Periodontal Treatment
Any of the symptoms listed below could be an indicator of periodontal disease:
- Gums that bleed after brushing and flossing
- Gums that are tender, red, or swollen
- Gums that have receded
- Persistent bad breath
- Pus exuding from between the gums and the teeth
- Loose teeth that should not be loose
- A change in your bite or in the fit of your dentures
If you notice any of these symptoms, we recommend that you set up an appointment with your dentist for further examination.
What Can I Do At Home?
The following habits will help you prevent periodontal disease:
- Excellent oral hygiene on a daily basis
- Brushing and flossing at least twice each day
- Good nutrition
- Regular dental check up and cleanings
Laser Gum Contouring
Laser gum contouring is essentially the reshaping and contouring of your gums in order to provide a visually pleasing gum line. Some people are hesitant to smile if they think that their gums look too large. Laser gum contouring will allow your dentist to create a gum line that will make you happy to smile.
Enhance Your Smile with Laser Gum Contouring
We clearly live in a visual society, so some procedures are offered purely for visual reasons. While laser gum contouring is almost never a medical necessity, it can provide some great cosmetic value for certain patients. Some patients have gums that are too high on the teeth, while others have gums that are too low on the teeth.
Laser Precision, Confident Smiles
Laser gum contouring is a way for your dentist to fix a “gummy” smile and make it more visually appealing. Our doctors at Matthews Smiles Dental have the experience with laser technology to perform this procedure safely and effectively. Before the treatment, our team will sit down with you and explain the benefits of the procedure. You can feel comfortable that the job will be safe and effective.
When the treatment is complete, you will be amazed at the smiling and confident person that you will see in the mirror!
