A periodontal gum disease can range from the minor to the very serious and difficult to treat. Periodontal means "around the tooth" and this refers to the gums. The gums are a very important part of the mouth and this is a fact that is often overlooked by most people. That is because people do not understand the role that the gums play in the human mouth. Correct gum care is an essential part of oral hygiene and can help you keep your natural teeth for the rest of your life.
Periodontal gum tissue helps keep the teeth secure in the mouth. In fact a receding gum line caused by advanced periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Once the gums have receded the teeth can loosen and eventually fall out. Other symptoms of gum disease are swollen and bleeding gums, blood when brushing and even halitosis (bad breath). Gingivitis is basically an infection of the gums and if it is not treated properly can advance to periodontitis, a more sever form of gum disease. If the disease is caught early enough gum disease treatment is pretty simple even if it is intensive.
Periodontal gum treatment differs on the severity of the case. Oral hygiene is an essential part any treatment. Scaling and root planing is a common starting point for treatment and treatment progress is tracked by periodontal charting. This takes type and dedication on the part of the patient to reverse the effects of gum disease. Periodontal flap surgery can be utilized if treatment is proving ineffective but this is generally an option of last resort.
If you believe you are having a problem with a periodontal gum disease and would like to learn more about what you can do, please consider visiting us at the Atlanta Dental Group PC. Our Atlanta dental team has over 45 years of combined experience serving Atlanta's dental needs. Our dentists in Georgia are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being and you are more than welcome to join our family of patients. If you would like schedule a free dental consultation appointment with our Atlanta Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, call to make an appointment at 404-874-7428.