The Importance of Periodontal Health

Girl FlossingWould you like to keep all your teeth for your entire life? Then, take care of your gums! Healthy gums anchor your teeth, keep your jaw bone strong, and protect your overall systemic health. Surprised at how important gums are? Read below to learn more about proper periodontal health, and call Dr. Robert Sanford at Sanford Center for Total Health Dentistry in Allentown, PA, if you are due for your regular checkup.

 

Bad bacteria and your gums

Bacteria thrives in the soft plaque and hard tartar which accumulates at and below the gum line as well as in the interdental spaces. Responsible for tooth decay, these acid-secreting micro-organisms also wreak havoc on gum tissue, causing:

  • Bleeding
  • Loosening of teeth
  • Bone and gum recession
  • Pus
  • Bad breath
  • Tenderness and redness
  • Exposed and sensitive tooth roots

Gum problems vary from mild gingivitis (which causes bleeding while brushing) to advanced periodontitis (which leads to lost teeth and other health problems). While gingivitis may go unnoticed for a time, the advanced problems are readily apparent to the patient. Additionally, The American Academy of Periodontology says gum disease and serious health conditions such as diabetes, stroke, dementia, and arthritis appear linked, with oral bacteria as the culprit.
Keeping gums healthy
Gum health starts at home with a nutritious, high-fiber, low-sugar diet. Brushing carefully twice a day and daily flossing also reduces plague and its associated bacteria. Additionally, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends twice yearly cleanings and check-ups with your dentist. Cleanings keep ahead of biofilm (plaque and tartar), and Dr. Sanford's expert eye catches gum disease at its earliest stages when it is most treatable.
If you have gum disease, you can be helped. Our Allentown dental office offers the latest techniques for restoring gums to full health and vibrancy. These services include:

  • Tooth scaling and root planing to remove deposits of hard tartar and to instill antibiotic medication as needed
  • Gum grafting to replace lost tissue and cover tooth roots
  • Laser surgery, a comfortable way to remove diseased tissue and reshape gums
  • PerioProtect, an at-home treatment system of customized trays that delivers anti-bacterial medication below the gum line, a common place where bacteria thrives

Healthy gums, healthy you
You can achieve both with help from the professional team at Sanford Center for Total Health Dentistry. Call today to book your routine check-up and hygienic cleaning:(610) 820-6000.

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