Minimally-Invasive Periodontal Care
Millions of Americans have gum disease but few people realize the short- and long-term effects of this condition. If left untreated, you can lose your teeth and suffer from health conditions linked to periodontal disease. This is why Dr. Park and (retired) Dr. Lamb take great care to ensure patients are free of any type of infection in the mouth and undergo treatment as soon as gum disease is detected. Dr. Park and (retired) Dr. Lamb are highly trained periodontists and offer minimally-invasive procedures to effectively treat and control this type of infection.
Preventing Gum Disease is Always a Priority
Many patients ask, what exactly causes gum disease? How can it be prevented? Since gum disease develops when there is excessive plaque and tartar buildup around the tooth’s surface, it is critical that all patients follow a good at-home care regimen. If you don’t take care of your teeth and gums by brushing and flossing regularly, you run the risk of developing gum disease at any age. Still, even the most diligent patients can develop gum disease. Some people are genetically predisposed to developing the condition so they have to be even more careful with their brushing and flossing routine. If you take certain medications or have fluctuating hormones because of pregnancy, you may be at a higher risk of developing gum-related problems.
Severe periodontal (gum) disease, which may result in tooth loss, is found in 20% of middle-aged people in the United States
Globally, about 30% of people aged 65–74 have no natural teeth.
A majority of consumers (68 percent) recognize the connection between oral health and overall health status.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis
- Red, Swollen, Inflamed Gums
- Bleeding When Brushing or Flossing
- Chronic Bad Breath
Advanced Periodontitis
- Connective Tissues Destroyed
- Shifting or Loose Teeth
- Tooth and Bone Loss
Gum Disease Treatment Options
Fortunately, there are several ways to treat gum disease. Dr. Park and (retired) Dr. Lamb are experienced working on a variety of cases and they specialize in treating gum disease. Even though the infection can be eradicated from the gums, you may need to undergo periodontal maintenance treatments to prevent the infection from coming back. This is why patients with gum disease need to be more conscientious about their at-home regimen and may be advised to come in for checkups and professional cleanings up to four times a year, instead of just two.
Dr. Park and (retired) Dr. Lamb may recommend one of the following as part of your treatment plan:
- Laser Gum Therapy
- Osseous Surgery
- Scaling and Root Planing
- Laser Soft Tissue Recontouring
- Gingivectomy