Periodontal Disease
The word periodontal means “around the tooth”. Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that support the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. If plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar). When plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone. Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.
Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it! Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages.
Not only is it the number one reason for tooth loss, research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk during pregnancy. Researchers are determining if inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease affects these systemic diseases and conditions. Smoking also increases the risk of periodontal disease.
Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.
Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease:
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"Dr Plant and his team are the best. They know what they are doing and how to do it safely and comfortably for their clients. They always have your health in mind."
"My husband has been going to Dr. Plant for more than 35 years. I started going to Dr. Plant about 30 years ago. It was when I broke a molar at the beginning of a long weekend. I was in pain, called my dentist. There was no answering machine to leave an urgent message, no way to reach help. I called Dr. Plant's office and left a message. Got a call back, came in for a temporary fix. That was enough for me to switch. We have brought extended family over to his practice too. Dr. Plant's office has got to be the most well run, thoughtful, careful dentist office. They are like family."