Over time, plaque can spread deep below the gum lines.  Gingivitis can progress into mild, moderate or advanced periodontitis.  In such cases pockets around the teeth are typically greater than 4mm, bone loss becomes apparent on x-rays, and heavier plaque and tartar buildup.  The toxin byproducts of the bacteria stimulate a chronic inflammatory response, which contributes to forming deeper pockets (spaces between teeth and gums), bleeding gums, inflammed gums, bone loss and in some advanced cases teeth can become loose and may need to be removed.  Periodontitis can be "localized" to just a small area in the mouth, or it could be "generalized" which means it might be throughout each dental arch.

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The number one factor that contributes to periodontal disease is inadequate consistent oral hygiene, throughout your lifetime.  Other factors that contribute are uncontrolled diabetes (or poorly controlled diabetes), smoking, certain medication use, aging, genetic predisposition, systemic disease, stress, inadequate nutrition, puberty, hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, substance abuse and HIV infection. The presence of periodontal disease is associated to other serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and low-birth weight premature infants in pregnant women.  

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Gum disease is considered "silent" in the early stages.  Typical gum disease symptoms may include:

• Red, swollen or tender gums or pain in the mouth

• Bleeding gums while brushing, flossing or eating hard food

• Gums that pull away from teeth, receding gums, causing teeth to look longer than before

• Pus or swelling between gums and teeth

• Mouth sores

• Persistent bad breath that does not go away with over-the-counter mouthwash

• A change in your bite or the way teeth fit together

• A change in the fit of partial dentures

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The most well-known cost effective and least invasive (non-surgical) treatment to treat periodontal disease is called scaling and root planing.   This type of periodontal/gum disease treatment or "deep cleaning" is done around deep gum pockets (typically greater than 4mm) to remove bacterial toxins (plaque and tartar) and to smooth the tooth root. This is done in one or two appointments.

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Laser Dentistry for Dental cleanings

We offer the option of laser therapy in conjunction with cleanings if you have deep pockets and inflammation.

If you are interested in a new, fresh approach to dental care, consider laser dentistry. At Dominion Dental Spa, we can use laser dentistry to treat our patients' oral health concerns in a way that is comfortable and effective. If you live in San Antonio or surrounding area and are looking for modern dental care, give us a call. Lasers are revolutionizing dentistry, but most family dentists still typically use only traditional metal dental tools.  As a laser dentist in San Antonio, TX we believe it is all about offering options for our patients so just let us know!

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Gum Maintenance

It is recommended that patients that have undergone scaling and root planing follow up with gum maintenance visits to maintain improved pockets every 3-4 months which helps reduce inflammation. Maintenance is always less expensive than repair.  If you have gotten out of the routine of regularly scheduled exams and cleanings, there may be a little repair to get you back into maintenance phase.  Once you are back in the maintenance routine, we will do everything we can to keep you on schedule, and on the road to healthy gums and beautiful smiles.

 

We are here to make you feel comfortable and give you a great experience!  Our skilled and caring dental hygienist and team are here to provide you a great gentle dental cleaning experience. Dental Cleanings Near Me

 

See the amenities at our dental office Dominion Dental Spa to make your experience even better.  Call us today at 210-567-1150.