Periodontal Disease in Arvada CO
Periodontal Disease: Protect Your Smile and Your Health
At Generations Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we believe in taking a proactive approach to oral health—because healthy gums are just as important as healthy teeth! Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a common but serious condition that affects the gums and the structures supporting your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and even impact your overall health. The good news is that with early intervention, Dr. Lindsay Compton and our team can help you manage and treat periodontal disease effectively.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It begins with the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on your teeth. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can turn into tartar (or calculus) that can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist.
There are two stages of periodontal disease:
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Gingivitis: This is the early, milder stage of gum disease, characterized by inflammation of the gums, redness, and bleeding when you brush or floss. Gingivitis can usually be reversed with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene at home.
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Periodontitis: If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can progress to periodontitis. This more advanced stage involves deeper infection of the gums, leading to gum recession, pocketing between the teeth and gums, and even bone loss. Periodontitis requires more intensive treatment to avoid serious complications.
Why Do You Need Scaling and Root Planing?
If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease, scaling and root planing (also known as a deep cleaning) may be recommended to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline. This procedure is necessary to:
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Remove Bacteria: Scaling and root planing helps eliminate the harmful bacteria and tartar buildup that cause gum inflammation and infection.
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Smooth the Tooth Roots: Root planing smooths the surface of the tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to stick to the roots and reducing the chances of further infection.
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Promote Healing: By removing the bacteria and smoothing the roots, we help your gums heal and reattach to your teeth, preventing further damage to your gum tissue and bone structure.
How is Periodontal Disease Treated at Generations Family & Cosmetic Dentistry?
At Generations Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer the latest treatments to help you manage and treat periodontal disease with comfort and precision. One of the advanced tools we use is the Blu Microlaser, a state-of-the-art technology that helps us treat periodontal disease more effectively and with less discomfort.
Here’s how the Blu Microlaser works:
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Laser Treatment: Our laser helps us remove infected tissue from the pockets between your gums and teeth, reducing bacteria and inflammation.
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Targeted Healing: The laser also promotes faster healing and stimulates tissue regeneration, allowing your gums to heal more effectively after treatment.
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Less Discomfort: The laser is gentle and reduces the need for surgical procedures, meaning you'll experience less pain and a quicker recovery.
What Are the Next Steps?
After your scaling and root planing procedure, it's important to follow up with the right care to ensure your gums heal properly and to prevent further damage. Here’s what you can expect:
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Post-Treatment Care: We’ll provide you with specific instructions to care for your gums after your procedure. You may experience some tenderness or sensitivity, but this should subside within a few days.
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Regular Checkups and Cleanings: It’s crucial to come in for regular checkups every 3 months to monitor your progress and keep your periodontal disease under control. Periodontal disease is a chronic condition that requires ongoing maintenance to prevent it from worsening.
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Personalized Home Care: Dr. Lindsay Compton and our team will provide personalized recommendations for your at-home oral care routine, including how to brush and floss properly and any additional tools (like antimicrobial rinses or special brushes) to keep your gums healthy.
Why You Need to Come Back Every 3 Months
After initial treatment, regular periodontal maintenance is essential. Every 3-month visit is designed to:
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Monitor Your Progress: We’ll check your gum health and make sure your gums are healing properly. This allows us to catch any potential issues early before they become more serious.
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Prevent Recurrence: Periodontal disease is a chronic condition, and without ongoing care, it can return. Regular cleanings and check-ups help ensure that bacteria don’t build up again and that your gums stay healthy.
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Keep Your Smile and Health in Check: Good gum health is linked to overall health, including heart disease and diabetes. By maintaining your periodontal care, you’re not just protecting your smile—you’re investing in your long-term health.
Schedule Your Periodontal Care Appointment Today
If you’re experiencing any signs of periodontal disease, such as bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession, don’t wait. Dr. Lindsay Compton and the team at Generations Family & Cosmetic Dentistry are here to help you restore your gum health and keep your smile bright for years to come. Call us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, happier smile!