You may be wondering what a periodontal disease is, and if you are at risk. The answer is complicated unless you visit with a dentist who can explain just exactly what a periodontal disease is and how to prevent them. In fact, while you can read about the periodontal disease, the best step you can take in educating yourself about them is to make an appointment at a dental office in Waikoloa. When you schedule a regular check-up, your dentist will check to see that your teeth and gums are healthy. By using a periodontal probe, a dentist can gently measure the space between each tooth and your gums. If you have too much space between your teeth bleeding could occur. In such a case, you could have a periodontal disease such as periodontics or gingivitis.
Gingivitis: The First Stage of Periodontal Disease
The first stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis. Plaque build-up irritates your gums then causes them to weaken then bleed. Gingivitis can lead to periodontitis which is a more severe periodontal disease where plaque hardens and forms tartar making deeper pockets between your teeth and gums. This also causes more severe inflammation, bleeding and irritation. Periodontitis that goes untreated can cause bone loss in advanced cases. You do not have to let your oral health get into this condition. Just simply schedule an appointment with a trusted dentist so you can have your teeth and gums evaluated.
Discuss Periodontal Treatments with Your Dentist
Any type of treatment needed for periodontal disease should be discussed with your dentist. The exact type of treatment will depend on the severity of the disease. If caught in the early stages of gingivitis and only minimal damage has occurred, all it may take is one or two regular cleanings. If the disease has advanced, a deep cleaning may be needed. This type of deep cleaning is called scaling and root planning may also be necessary.
Regular Periodontal Maintenance May Be Required
Dr. Brian S. Kubo, DDS is a great dentist to visit if you believe you may be in the beginning stages of periodontal disease. Plaque only takes 24 hours to start building up on your teeth and becoming tartar. After you have received periodontal disease treatment, you should make regular visits to your dentists for maintenance cleanings four times a year. Cleanings can ensure the pockets between your gums and teeth are a healthy size and that you are adequately limiting tartar and plague buildup.
Brian S. Kubo DDS, Inc. is a professional, compassionate and caring dentist that truly cares about your dental health. Visit his dental office in Waikoloa to ensure you aren’t suffering from any periodontal diseases.
