Periodontal Care in Hobe Sound, FLWe offer tailored periodontal care here at DiMeo Family Dental. Each treatment has been specifically devised to meet our individual client's needs. Periodontal care is necessary to prevent gum disease in the soft tissues and bones of the mouth. Treating PeriodontitisPeriodontitis, more commonly known as gum disease, is an infection of the gums and bones around the teeth. It is more common than most people realize and is caused by bacterial build-up surrounding the base of the teeth. When these bacteria multiply the gums often swell or become inflamed. This inflammation is the body's natural defense mechanism. Unfortunately, if periodontitis is not treated it will lead to receding gumlines and eventual tooth loss. Plaque is a common contributor to periodontitis. When plaque is allowed to build up on the surface of the teeth without being cleaned away it hardens into tartar. Tartar clings to the base of the teeth and must be scraped away by a healthcare professional. This is why it is important to both brush and floss your teeth regularly to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Periodontal CarePeriodontal care refers to the steps we take to prevent periodontitis in patients. The most important factor is a good oral hygiene routine. The dentist or the dental hygienist will be able to talk you through problem areas in your mouth. There are various treatments available for periodontitis, but prevention is better than cure and will be the main focus of our team. Just as brushing and flossing are part of a regular oral hygiene routine, you can maintain good periodontal care by scheduling regular dental exams and tooth and gum cleanings. Having a professional remove the plaque and bacteria build-up from around your teeth and gums will keep your teeth safer for longer. It is recommended that you have both a dental exam and a tooth and gum cleaning at least once every six months. Scaling and Cleaning for Periodontal CareWhen you have a scaling and cleaning, the dental hygienist will scrape the hardened tartar from your teeth. They will then use a gritty toothpaste and an electric brush to clean and polish the teeth. A professional flossing will also take place, leaving you with a whiter, brighter smile. Other OptionsIf you are suffering from gum disease, then the dentist may suggest medications or, in the most extreme cases, surgery. Medications for periodontitis include antibiotic gels, antiseptic gelatin chips, antimicrobial mouthwash, and enzyme suppressants. In most cases, an oral antibiotic may be suitable. If you need to have surgery the dentist will talk you through your options. A bone or tissue graft will replace damaged areas of the mouth. Flap surgery may be used to clean out the pockets of bacteria in the mouth or to make them easier to clean out in the future. Surgery is used in only the most extreme cases. Good periodontal care and a regular oral hygiene routine will prevent this in the long term. If you require periodontal care or would like more information, then you can contact us at DiMeo Family Dental at (772) 266-0962. We are happy to answer any and all questions you may have. |