Detecting and Treating Gum Disease
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, affects not only the mouth; it can also catalyze major health problems that compromise your overall health. Regular periodontal care at Total Health Dental Care in Oakland and Berkeley is a critical part of preventing and treating gum disease. Our dental team, led by the skilled Dr. Sepand Hokmabadi, is dedicated to the idea of better overall health through dental care. With attentive care in a relaxing environment, our practice provides comprehensive periodontal care so that we can catch difficult and potentially damaging conditions before they progress.
To learn more about how you can take care of your health with regular periodontal care, contact the East Bay’s whole person dentist, Total Health Dental Care, to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists.
Benefits of Periodontal Care
We stress to our patients that gum disease not only affects the gums and the inside of the mouth, but the entire body. Excess bacteria that form in decaying teeth and diseased gums can be spread to the rest of the body, helping to create or exacerbate other conditions, such as stroke, heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, gastric ulcers, or osteoporosis. There have even been connections between periodontal disease in pregnant women and premature birth or low birth weight in newborn babies. The key to fighting these conditions is regular preventive dentistry and periodontal care.
The Stages of Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis
During this early stage of periodontal disease, the gums become tender or swollen and can bleed easily when brushing. This can be controlled with increased attention to oral hygiene and basic dental treatment.
Moderate Periodontitis
If left unchecked, the condition of the gums can deteriorate, and the gums can begin to detach themselves from the teeth. Tiny pockets form, collecting plaque below the gum line. This can become very dangerous for the roots of teeth, as well as the gums.
Advanced Periodontitis
When the deterioration of gums and bone tissue becomes extensive, teeth may need to be extracted. The everyday functioning of teeth, like biting, chewing, and even speaking, can become dramatically reduced. Periodontal bacteria can cause other serious health problems.
Scheduling Periodontal Care
Visiting the dentist every four to six months for regular checkups is one of the most important things you can do for the health of your teeth and gums. If you experience any symptoms of gum disease – including red, swollen, or bleeding gums, we advise you to schedule an appointment immediately for a comprehensive oral exam. Oral examinations allow our team to detect signs of weakening gums or bone loss early. These symptoms are not visible, so professional periodontal care is critical to treatment.
