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What is Periodontal Disease? |
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Periodontal disease (also known as "periodontal infection", "gum disease" or "pyorrhea") is an ongoing infection in the gums around your teeth. The cause of periodontal disease is infectious bacteria that gets deep into your gums
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This infection starts destroying the bone that supports your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss. Many people do not know they have periodontal disease which is unfortunate because it is one of the primary causes of tooth loss.
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One out of three people over the age of 30 have some form of periodontal disease that is advanced beyond gingivitis.
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What causes periodontal disease? The answer is Plaque. That is why we spend so much time talking about good oral hygiene.
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Periodontal Disease is linked with stroke, heart disease, cardiovasucalar problems, diabetes complications, underweight or prematurely born babies, digestive disorders, and many more life threatening conditions. The fight against gum disease is the front line to many other problems. Don't put it off! |
How is Periodontal Disease Treated?
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After a complete medical and dental history Dr. Francis will examine your teeth and other gum tissues to determine if you have periodontal disease or other periodontal needs. This exam may include X-rays and measurements of your gum line to check for recession and disease. He will then explain what your treatment options are and show you pictures and diagrams so that you feel comforatable with the treatment plant.
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Treatment may include:
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Scaling and Root Planning (Deep Cleaning) and more frequent maintiance
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Tissue Grafting or other Regenerative or Restorative procedures.
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Bone Grafting in one or more sites.
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Your treatment options may also include Dental Implants or any number of cosmetic, periodontal plastic surgical or smile enhancing procedures.
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Working with your general dentist, orthodontist, and other medical specialists is crucial in treating many of the problems surrounding Periodontal Disease. Dr. Francis will work to make sure that all of your health concerns are addressed and your overall health and satisfaction are achieved by working with other practicioners to give you the best possible care. |
How can I prevent Periodontal Disease?
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Prevention is not always easy or convenient, but good oral hygiene is the key. Effective daily brushing and flossing can not be ov emphasized. Good daily habits once established are easy to maintian.
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Regular dental visits that include a periodontal exam and thorough cleaning can insure that you are not missing something. Your general dentist will typically do some type of periodontal evaluation once per year. If problems are noted you may be reffered to a periodontist.
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Calculus, sometimes referred to as "tarter" may build up on your teeth due to bacterial plaque as well as your own natural salivary mineral content. Calculus forms more quickly on some people than others but should be regularly removed for good periodontal health. For the average patient once or twice a year is adequate for a professional cleaning but some patients need a more strict cleaning regimine based on these factors. In this case a cleaning every 3 or 4 months may be prescribed.
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Keep in mind that there is a genetic factor involved in periodontal disease making some individuals more prone to infection due to their hereditary line. In many cases your best efforts will not realistically be enough to fight this on your own! Please come in and let Dr. Francis help set you on the path towards a more healthy you. |
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