Approximately 80% of Americans have some level of periodontal disease (gum disease). Early gum disease is called gingivitis, and it can be halted. However, if you let the infection transition into periodontitis (severe gum disease) bone deterioration and tooth loss can become an issue. The importance of your regular dental checkups is clear regarding this matter. Symptoms are often non-existent, or so mild that a patient doesn’t even know there is a problem. However, a dentist or hygienist can diagnose gum disease in an early phase. Downey dentist, Dr. Hakimzadeh, will tell you more about gum disease, and how dental innovations make treatment easier on patients.
Gum Disease Causes
Periodontal disease usually results from plaque and tartar buildup at the gumline. Gum disease is nothing more than a bacterial infection that has an erosive effect on the connective tissues between gums and teeth. Periodontal pockets are little pouches of infection that form at the base of teeth. The bacteria that cause gum disease thrive in the warm, moist, dark environment of periodontal pockets. When gum disease goes this far, symptoms include red, swollen, tender gums. Halitosis (bad breath), loose teeth, jawbone deterioration, tooth abscesses, and complete tooth loss are also common symptoms of severe gum disease.
Laser Gum Disease Treatment
If detected and treated early enough, periodontal disease can be treated without surgical methods. Your dentist can use a laser beam which vaporizes the bacteria and the infection. The name for this procedure is laser debridement or laser decontamination. Laser gum treatment can restore an environment conducive to the reattachment of gum tissue and teeth. Gum disease may not technically be reversible, but Dr. Hakimzadeh can assure that the effects of periodontal disease don’t continue to worsen.
Visit Downey Family Dentistry
To schedule an appointment with our Downey, CA dental practice, call us at (562) 472-2433. Also, visit our website for services, testimonials, and to learn more about our team. We proudly treat patients from Workman, Hollydale, Norwalk, Santa Fe Springs, Bell Gardens, Cudahy, and surrounding cities.
