Good oral hygiene and professional cleanings are essential in maintaining dental health.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease.  Plaque and its toxin by-products irritate the gums, making them tender, inflamed, and likely to bleed.

Periodontitis

Plaque hardens into calculus (tartar).  As calculus and plaque continue to build up, the gums begin to recede from the teeth.  Deeper pockets form between the gums and teeth and become filled with bacteria and pus.  The gums become very irritated, inflamed, and bleed easily.  Slight to moderate bone loss may be present.

Advanced Periodontitis

The teeth lose more support as the gums, bone, and periodontal ligament continue to be destroyed.  Unless treated, the affected teeth will become very loose and may be lost.  Generalized moderate to severe bone loss may be present.

Treatments

If the disease is caught in the early stages of gingivitis, and no damage has been done, one to two regular cleanings will be recommended. 

If the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) will be recommended. In this procedure, tartar, plaque, and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line (scaling) and rough spots on root surfaces are made smooth (planing). 

If the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depths, making teeth easier to clean.  Your dentist may also recommend that you see a Periodontist (specialist of the gums and supporting bone).

 

We provide Cosmetic Treatments & Esthetic Restorations such as Porcelain Inlays & Onlays, Porcelain Crowns, Porcelain Bridges, Porcelain Veneers, Lumineers & Teeth Whitening.  We are also pleased to provide you with Invisalign, The Clear Cosmetic Braces, A new alternative & invisible way to straighten your teeth ; and a full range of Dental Implants for all your missing teeth replacement needs.