Patients have a growing concern to preserve their oral health. We here at El Paso Periodontics & Implant Specialists in El Paso, TX share this concern, which is why we provide patients with several ways to preserve their oral health and keep dental issues from developing or worsening. Early treatment is the best way to maintain healthy teeth, so visit a dentist twice a year for an exam and cleaning.
Early Stages – Gingivitis
Many dental patients have heard of gingivitis. It’s famous for being the cause of foul-smelling breath, but it is the early stage of periodontal disease. When gingivitis has developed, there is plaque and tartar in the mouth that can accumulate and cause problems in the mouth. Plaque not only eats away at enamel – it can cause the gums to pull away from teeth and lead to loosening molars that must be extracted.
Deep Cleanings
When a traditional cleaning is not enough to reverse and prevent the effects of periodontal disease, scaling and root planing will be recommended by your local dental professional. During this procedure, the teeth will be cleaned of any tartar or plaque that has accumulated between the teeth and the gums. This area is known as the periodontal pocket. Once the pocket is cleared, the surface of the roots of teeth will be smoothened so that the tissues of the gums can heal.
Surgery for Periodontal Disease
When deep cleaning has not been enough to alleviate the symptoms of gum disease and allow the gums to heal, surgery may be recommended by your dental professional to restore your oral health and prevent further dental issues. Surgery is used to remove any of the tartar or plaque in difficult to reach areas. Once all of it is removed, the gums will be stitched so that they hug the teeth and it is easier to keep the mouth healthy and clean.
If you suspect that you have gingivitis, schedule an appointment with your El Paso Periodontics & Implant Specialists dentist in El Paso. In its early stages, periodontal disease can be effectively treated and prevented by maintaining pristine oral health.