{"id":816,"date":"2019-11-21T17:28:44","date_gmt":"2019-11-21T17:28:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.drgsmiles.com\/blog\/?p=816"},"modified":"2019-11-21T17:28:44","modified_gmt":"2019-11-21T17:28:44","slug":"periodontal-therapy-dentist-medford","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.drgsmiles.com\/blog\/2019\/11\/21\/periodontal-therapy-dentist-medford\/","title":{"rendered":"What is Periodontal Disease?"},"content":{"rendered":"\"model<\/a>Your smile can last for a lifetime with the right care over the years, which is why you\u2019re proactive about cavity prevention. Although 92% of adults have had at least one cavity, tooth decay isn\u2019t the only threat to your smile. In fact, there is another danger that may linger your mouth. Periodontal (gum) disease affects at least 50% of Americans; however, most adults aren\u2019t aware they have it. Don\u2019t worry, your dentist in Medford has the solutions you need to save your smile<\/a>.\n\n

What is Periodontal Disease?<\/h2>\nGum disease is a preventable infection that occurs in the gingival tissues as a result of improper oral hygiene. Bacteria found in plaque and tartar accumulations infect the gum tissue, causing pockets to form near the roots of the teeth. At first, you may only experience red, swollen, or bleeding gums. During this stage of the infection, called gingivitis, your dentist can easily stop it without it causing long-term damage.\n\nUnfortunately, many people don\u2019t recognize the early warning signs of gum disease. As a result, the infection continues to spread until it destroys the supporting structures of your teeth. As it reaches the advanced stages, your teeth may loosen and fall out.\n\nThe bacteria can also enter your bloodstream from the pressure of chewing. As it circulates throughout your body it can increase your risk of several health concerns, including heart disease, respiratory infections, and Alzheimer\u2019s disease.\n

How is Gum Disease Treated?<\/h2>\nIf your dentist detects the infection, you\u2019re going to need periodontal therapy. The first step to fighting the infection is a treatment called scaling and root planing, better known as a deep cleaning. A special dental tool removes tartar from above and below the gum line. The roots of the teeth are smoothed to allow the gum tissue to reattach to them to reduce the risk of future infection. When combined with the right oral hygiene habits at home and regular preventive appointments, you can keep gum disease at bay.\n

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?<\/h2>\nAlthough gum disease is common, there are several things you can do to prevent it, such as:\n