Welcome to Maiden Family Dentistry's comprehensive guide to periodontal care. Our practice emphasizes the importance of periodontal health for maintaining a beautiful smile and overall well-being. This page goes in-depth into the grave systemic health implications of untreated gum disease, detailed stages of gum disease, the role of nutrition in oral health, and our focus on ongoing care.

Periodontal Care and Overall Health

Periodontal care is essential not just for your oral health but for your entire body. Untreated gum disease can lead to consequences that are both alarming and preventable.

Health Consequences of Untreated Gum Disease

Untreated gum disease can spiral into serious health issues, some of which are:

• Tooth Loss: As gum disease progresses, the gums may recede further, loosening the teeth, ultimately resulting in tooth loss. This can affect your appearance, self-confidence, and ability to chew food properly.
• Bone Loss: The infection might reach the bones supporting the teeth, weakening them and leading to loss of bone structure. It's a gradual process that significantly impacts oral health.
• Systemic Health Issues: Several systemic health problems are associated with gum disease, including:
• Heart Disease: Inflammation caused by gum disease may contribute to arterial plaque, increasing heart disease risk.
• Respiratory Infections: The mouth's bacteria can be inhaled into the lungs, potentially leading to pneumonia.
• Diabetes: The infections might cause insulin resistance, complicating diabetes management.
• Pregnancy Complications: Expectant mothers with periodontal disease may experience preterm births or low birth weight babies.

Gum Disease: A Comprehensive Overview

Gum disease is a progressive condition. Understanding its stages helps in early intervention:

1. Gingivitis:

• Signs & Symptoms: Mild inflammation, red or swollen gums, occasional bleeding during brushing or flossing.
• Causes: Often resulting from inadequate oral hygiene.
• Treatment: Regular check-ups and professional cleanings can reverse this stage.

1. Mild Periodontitis:

• Signs & Symptoms: More pronounced inflammation, receding gums, formation of pockets between teeth and gums.
• Causes: Continued poor hygiene leading to tartar buildup.
• Treatment: Scaling and root planing to cleanse below the gumline.

1. Advanced Periodontitis:

• Signs & Symptoms: Further progression, loose or shifting teeth, chronic bad breath, visible pus.
• Causes: Advanced stages develop from untreated earlier stages.
• Treatment: Thorough scaling and root planing, followed by maintenance cleanings.

Nutrition and Gum Disease: A Closer Look

Nutrition directly impacts oral health:

• What to Include: Vitamin C, Calcium, Omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber-rich foods strengthen gums.
• What to Avoid: Sugary and acidic foods encourage bacterial growth.

Treatment Options at Maiden Family Dentistry

We offer treatments designed to prevent and halt the progression of gum disease:

• Regular Cleanings: Essential for early detection and prevention.
• Scaling and Root Planing: Our primary treatment method is performed with precision and care.

Post Scaling and Root Planing Care

Ongoing care post-treatment includes:

• Regular Check-Ups: Monitoring healing and prevention.
• Personalized Home Care Plans: Specific instructions to follow at home.
• Maintenance Cleanings: Regular cleanings to sustain gum health.

Importance of Early Detection

Early detection and timely intervention are the to avoiding serious health consequences. When detected in the earliest stage, gum disease is reversible. In later stages, it is critical to stop the progression of gum disease to avoid tooth and bone loss.

Family Focus

Our services are accessible and tailored for all family members, ensuring comfort and quality care.

The Maiden Family Dentistry Team

Our dedicated team believes in a patient-centered approach, providing personalized and comprehensive care.

Maiden Family Dentistry's periodontal services offer a well-rounded approach to oral and overall health. From educating you on the stages of gum disease and offering effective treatments like scaling and root planing to emphasizing the role of nutrition and ongoing care, we're your partner in health. The serious consequences of untreated gum disease make our role vital in preserving not just your smile but your overall well-being.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at (828) 970-7432. Your smile and health are our priority!