Periodontal Care

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a condition that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is primarily caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If not properly removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to inflammation of the gums.

There are two main stages of gum disease:

Gingivitis

This is the early stage of gum disease and is characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. Gingivitis is usually reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional dental care.

Periodontitis

If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. In this stage, the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that collect debris and bacteria. As the disease advances, these pockets deepen, leading to the loss of supporting bone structure and, ultimately, tooth loss.

According to data from the CDC, approximately 46% of adults aged 30 years or older exhibit signs of gum disease. Additionally, severe gum disease is observed in around 9% of adults. Stay informed about your oral health to ensure timely prevention and effective care.

The Consequences of Oral Bacteria and Gum Disease Go Far Beyond the Mouth

At Midtown Dental Studio we practice complete health dentistry. All that means is that we understand that the health of your mouth and the health of your body impact one another in many ways. We believe in being as thorough as possible and customizing your care to help you obtain and maintain optimal oral health. Since Periodontal Disease is multifactorial, we need to know the cause so at Midtown Dental Studio we use salivary testing with OralDNA® Labs to check your oral bacterial levels and genetic risk of inflammation.

OralDNA® Labs offers testing for the profile of oral bacteria that cause periodontal disease. These bacteria, especially at high levels, and in combination with an individual’s genetic inflammatory response, result in bad breath, pain, bleeding gums, loss of bone, and eventually tooth loss. But the consequences of these same bacteria, present for years and decades, add significantly to the risk of a wide range of life-threatening diseases beyond the mouth. Below are some of those diseases and the measurable risk of those diseases becoming serious if these oral pathogens are not treated.

Cardiovascular disease
Metabolic Health and Diabetes
Health During Pregnancy
Development of Cancer and Risk of Progression
Joint and Musculoskeletal Health
Dementia and Brain Health

A Proactive Approach to Health w/ Oral DNA Testing

Decoding Dental Cleanings: Unveiling the Differences Between Deep Cleaning and Regular Cleaning

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

During scaling, the dental hygienist uses special instruments to remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from the surfaces of the teeth, both above and below the gumline. This helps eliminate the source of bacteria causing gum inflammation.

Scaling

Root Planing

Root planing focuses on smoothing the roots of the teeth to discourage the accumulation of plaque and tartar. It helps create a clean surface that promotes the reattachment of the gums to the teeth.

Differences from a "Normal" Cleaning

Scope of Treatment

A regular cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a preventive measure aimed at maintaining overall oral health. It involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces, usually limited to above the gumline. In contrast, scaling and root planing are therapeutic procedures specifically targeting the treatment of gum disease.

Targeted Areas

While a regular cleaning addresses the visible parts of the teeth, scaling and root planing extend beneath the gumline to target areas where bacteria have caused inflammation and damage.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a regular cleaning is to prevent cavities, gingivitis, and maintain oral hygiene. Scaling and root planing, on the other hand, are intended to address existing gum disease by removing accumulated plaque, tartar, and promoting the healing of the gum tissues.

Frequency

Regular cleanings are typically recommended every six months as part of routine dental care. Scaling and root planing may be recommended as a more intensive treatment for individuals with diagnosed gum disease, and the frequency may vary based on the severity of the condition.

In summary, while regular cleanings focus on prevention and maintenance, scaling and root planing are specialized treatments designed to manage and improve gum health, especially in the presence of gum disease. Regular dental check-ups can help determine the most suitable treatment plan for each patient's unique oral health needs.

At our office, we use clinical laboratory services from OralDNA Labs^® to ensure we are giving our patients the best oral health information possible. OralDNA Labs^® is a specialty diagnostics company designed to provide reliable, definitive and cost-effective clinical tests that guide oral health professionals in detecting and diagnosing disease at an earlier, more treatable stage.

Perio Protect

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection hidden below your gums. Dental cleanings can effectively remove the bacteria, but the bacteria repopulate almost immediately and the infectious cycle continues. It’s important to keep brushing and flossing, but your toothbrush, rinse and floss just can’t reach deep enough to address infections below your gums.

The Perio Tray^® by Perio Protect gently applies medication deep under the gums to fight the infections and prevent their recurrence. You use it at home for just minutes each day. The Tray is comfortable, flexible, and custom-fit precisely for your mouth.

It is important to treat active infections. Almost half of American adults have chronic periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease that taxes the immune system and may make it harder for your body to fight off other infectious challenges. Infections in your gums may also contribute to other chronic health problems like arterial inflammation.

Not only does Perio Tray^® therapy help improve your health, it can also help you smile with more confidence. Patients using Perio Trays^® report whiter teeth and fresher breath. Chronic bad breath often signals chronic gum disease. Address the disease and freshen your breath.

If you’ve been told that you have gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), ask our team if Perio Trays^® are right for you.

Understanding How Gum Disease Impacts Dental Implants

Once you have an implant, your risk of developing gum disease does not disappear. While implants are considered a durable and long-lasting solution for tooth replacement, they are not immune to the effects of gum disease. Understanding how gum disease can impact dental implants is crucial for maintaining oral health and preserving the longevity of your investment.

Peri-implantitis

One of the primary concerns related to gum disease and dental implants is peri-implantitis. This condition is characterized by inflammation and infection of the tissues surrounding the implant, similar to how gum disease affects natural teeth. If left untreated, peri-implantitis can lead to bone loss and ultimately compromise the stability of the implant.

Increased Risk of Implant Failure

Gum disease can increase the risk of implant failure by weakening the supporting structures around the implant. In advanced stages of periodontal disease, the bone and gums may recede, exposing the implant to further damage and potential loss.

Importance of Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is essential for preventing gum disease and maintaining the health of dental implants. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups are crucial for removing plaque and bacteria that can contribute to gum inflammation and peri-implantitis.

Professional Maintenance

Patients with dental implants should undergo regular professional cleanings and exams to monitor the health of the implant and surrounding tissues. Dental professionals can detect early signs of gum disease and intervene before it progresses and jeopardizes the integrity of the implant.

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