What is Periodontal disease?
If you have been diagnosed with Periodontal disease, it’s natural to have questions. Whether or not you fully understand Periodontal disease, at Coddington Dental, we believe it’s our job to answer some basic questions, so you know what to expect. In our article, our affordable dentist in Lincoln, NE will cover these commonly asked questions:
Periodontal disease…how can it affect me? Our Lincoln, NE dentist explains…
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition. Gum diseases affect the gums and underlying bone around teeth and are caused by our body’s response to an imbalance in the good and bad bacteria in our mouth. This bacteria usually builds up in the plaque and tartar that forms on our teeth between dental visits. This condition has been seen in patients as young as 14 years old. Generally, however, it is more common among adults. Genetics and other risk factors can determine a person’s likelihood of developing this condition. It is important to identify and treat periodontal disease appropriately. Research shows that the chronic inflammation associated with periodontal disease can have a serious impact on the heart, lungs, bones, and blood sugar levels. For pregnant women, periodontal disease can also have a significant negative effect on fetal development.
Learn how having bad breath could be a sign of periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease typically does not cause any discomfort. Many times, it is considered a silent disease. It can cause many other dental complications if not treated promptly. Periodontal disease causes changes in the bone levels around teeth and ultimately tooth loss if not treated in the early or moderate stages.
Periodontal disease can have a
direct effect on your overall health:
Circulatory System
Bacteria enter the bloodstream through the gums. From the gums, it can travel to other parts of the body. This can cause secondary infections and can contribute to diseases already in progress.
Inflammation
The body’s inflammatory response to periodontal disease can trigger other inflammatory diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and kidney failure and can cause artery walls to enlarge.
Respiratory System
The bacteria from gum disease attaches to saliva droplets that you inhale. You can breathe in bacteria when you inhale, thus increasing bacteria in the lungs, which can cause pulmonary infections and respiratory problems.
Blood Sugar
Inflammation from gum disease increases blood sugar levels and weakens the body’s ability to control blood sugar.
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Periodontal Disease Treatment
Can my general dentist in Lincoln, NE treat this condition? Our Lincoln, NE dentist explains…
Unfortunately, periodontal disease is not reversible. It can, however, be stabilized with the appropriate treatment. Thorough home care and changing a few lifestyle habits can positively influence the outcome of your treatment. The initial phase of treatment for periodontal disease is a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing). Most of the time, these deep cleanings can be completed at your general dentist’s office.
How many appointments will I need for periodontal treatment? Our Lincoln, NE dentist explains…
This treatment consists of two appointments. Your hygienist will complete one side of your mouth at each visit using an anesthetic to ensure your comfort. This cleaning allows access to the space between the teeth and gums where bacteria have accumulated. During this procedure, the root surfaces are smoothed. Thus, allowing the gums to heal, preventing further progression of bone loss.
Once the deep cleaning has been completed, it is recommended that patients come back to the dental office every four months to maintain the bone levels. Thus, preventing further progression of periodontal disease.
What if I have dental anxiety? Our Lincoln, NE dentist explains…
If you have dental anxiety and have concerns about periodontal treatment, be sure to ask any of our dentists about conscious sedation in dentistry. Sedation dentistry is a completely safe and effective way to get the dental treatment you need and deserve.
Your hygienist will administer an anesthetic to ensure your comfort, and use a specific cleaning tool removes the build-up and bacteria from the pockets surrounding your teeth. Your hygienist will then smooth the root of the tooth to help prevent bacteria from adhering to it.
After the initial cleaning, do I have to come back more frequently? Our Lincoln, NE dentist explains…
Once both the right and left side of your mouth has been cleaned, we recommend you come back for periodontal maintenance appointments every four months. With meticulous home care and regular dental cleanings, you can stop your periodontal disease in its tracks, and it can remain stable for the rest of your life.
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The information on this page was written by Dr. Jodi Day.
This gentle Lincoln, NE dentists says: “My patients deserve personalized, quality dental care in an atmosphere they feel comfortable in. At Nebraska Family Dentistry, our team of caring professionals is committed to providing you with a comfortable and positive dental experience. Our goal is to partner with you to help you achieve and maintain optimal dental health throughout your lifetime.”
You can schedule with this Lincoln, NE dentist online 24/7 at her West Lincoln Location of Nebraska Family Dentistry. This Lincoln, NE dentist serves the local communities close to Coddington Dental in Garland, Pleasant Dale, Denton, Crete, Milford, Hickman, Roca, Martell, and Panama.
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