Patient Education

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is very common in adults and is a major cause of tooth loss. It is usually painless and can cause irreversible damage without the patient being aware that it exists. It is an inflammatory disease that affects the gums, underlying bone and the other supportive structures around the teeth. It is caused by bacteria collated under the gum line. Periodontal disease has been shown to contribute to systemic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and respiratory infections. Symptoms include red swollen gums, bleeding gums, receding gums, loose teeth, and chronic bad taste or odor. Periodontal disease progresses from gingivitis when the gums are swollen to detachment of the gums that creates deep pockets around the teeth; this allows more bacteria to trap deep around the teeth and then leads to further deterioration of the bone and support structures. As plaque is trapped deep in the gum pockets, it is difficult to remove with regular brushing and flossing. Plaque removal is further complicated as the plaque calcifies into calculus or tartar deposit that is firmly attached to the teeth. Professional scaling is the only way to remove this hardened deposit. The dental hygienist specializes in the removal of plaque and calculus. When a patient comes in for a dental exam and cleaning, the gums will be checked, gum pockets will be measured, and the plaque and light tartar will be removed. If a patient is diagnosed with periodontal disease or if tartar deposit is heavy, the patient will be scheduled back for periodontal treatment which will include more advanced scaling and root planning to remove bacteria and smooth teeth. In some cases, patients may be referred to a periodontist who specializes in treating periodontal disease.

Proper Brushing and Flossing

Most people are aware that daily brushing and flossing is essential for good dental health. But many people have never learned that their toothbrush and floss should be reaching below the gum line. The toothbrush should always be a soft brush which will allow the bristles of the brush to flex down under the gum line. Brush with the bristles pointed into the gums at about a 45* angle. Use a circular or vibrating motion that loosens plaque around the gums and use a sweeping motion to remove the plaque. When flossing, hold 1’-2’ inches of floss taught between the fingers. Using a gentle back and forth motion, guide it between the teeth past the contact point of the teeth. Then “hug” the tooth with the floss by contouring it around the tooth and allow the floss to slip under the point of the gums. Rub the floss up and down each tooth to remove the bacterial plaque that collects between the teeth and under the gums. Use a clean section of floss for each tooth.

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