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Our gums are the foundation of our teeth and it is vital to our oral health that we take care of them. Unfortunately, it is estimated that 75% of Americans have some form of gum (or periodontal) disease. Most tooth loss in adults today is due to gum disease and not decay. We take this risk seriously and offer comprehensive treatment to restore gums to optimum health. Gum disease is reversible in its initial stages so our preventative approach is essential to keep problems at bay.
There is mounting evidence of a relationship between oral bacteria and life threatening diseases such as oral cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory ailments. Often times symptoms of these diseases occur in the mouth first and registered dental hygienists and dentists are the first to notice these changes as they occur. Preventative continuing care appointments with our skilled hygienist are a great first line of defense.
Our initial assessment of your gum health includes precise measurements of the gum pockets surrounding your teeth. A pocket measuring greater than 3mm, the depth that a tooth brush can clean, is of concern. We tailor your gum therapies to your specific needs. Sometimes one or two professional cleanings can tighten up your gums enough to provide the support your teeth need. With deeper pocket measurements, however, more advanced procedures are needed. Our hygienist uses an ultrasonic water jet cleaner and specifically designed hand tools to remove all plaque and create the smooth tooth surface needed for the best gum health.
Antibiotic medicines placed directly in cleaned out gum pockets are a relatively new procedure from which we have had great results. Killing the gum disease causing bacteria directly on site allows the tissue to tighten up to a safe, supportive level. More frequent continuing care appointment and follow up placement of the antibiotic medicines can keep severe disease in check.
Patient comfort is one of our greatest concerns. Our hygienist's gentle but precise techniques create wonderful results. If there is any way we can make your experience easier and more carefree, please let us know. For more information, please see the article Dr. Malkemus wrote for The Community Voice entitled “Don’t Wait Till it Hurts” and “Women and Periodontal Health” in the Patient Education section of this website.
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