Periodontal Maintenance Northridge, CA

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligament, and bone. This condition is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults and can have serious consequences if left untreated. Periodontal disease is characterized by inflammation and infection of the gums, which can lead to the destruction of the supporting tissues around the teeth. Understanding the nature of this disease is crucial for maintaining good oral health and preventing further complications.

Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

The signs and symptoms of periodontal disease can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing
• Loose or sensitive teeth
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
• Changes in the way teeth fit together when biting down
• Pus or discharge between the teeth and gums

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential to visit a dentist or periodontist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Early detection and intervention can help manage the disease and prevent further damage to your oral health.

Risk Factors and Causes of Periodontal Disease

Several risk factors and causes can contribute to the development of periodontal disease. These include:

• Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly can lead to the accumulation of plaque and tartar, which can cause gum disease.
• Genetics: Some people may be more prone to developing periodontal disease due to their genetic makeup.
• Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for periodontal disease, as it can reduce blood flow to the gums and make them more susceptible to infection.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to develop periodontal disease, as high blood sugar levels can affect the body’s ability to fight infection.
• Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause can affect the gums and increase the risk of periodontal disease.

Understanding these risk factors can help you take proactive steps to prevent gum disease and maintain healthy gums. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential in managing these risk factors.

The Benefits of Periodontal Maintenance

There are many benefits to periodontal maintenance, including:

• Prevents periodontal disease from progressing: This type of dental cleaning helps remove bacteria and plaque buildup, preventing periodontal disease from worsening.
• Prevents tooth loss: Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Regular periodontal cleaning appointments can help prevent this from happening.
• Maintains oral health: Periodontal maintenance helps keep your teeth and gums healthy and can prevent other oral health problems, such as cavities and bad breath. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is also essential to effectively remove plaque and combat the bacteria that cause gum disease.
• Helps detect other health problems: Your dentist or periodontist may be able to detect other health problems during your periodontal cleaning appointments, such as diabetes or heart disease.

Who Needs Periodontal Maintenance?

Anyone who has had periodontal disease in the past and has undergone periodontal therapy is a candidate for periodontal maintenance. Additionally, you may also benefit from this type of dental cleaning if you:

• Have a family history of gum disease
• Smoke
• Have diabetes
• Are pregnant and may be at a higher risk for gum disease

To schedule an appointment with our Northridge dentist, contact our office at 818-709-8645.

The Periodontal Maintenance Process

The periodontal maintenance process typically involves a thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums. Here’s what you can expect:

• Evaluation: Our dentist will evaluate your gum health and determine if further treatment is needed. In some advanced cases, bone grafting may be necessary to support the teeth and promote natural bone regeneration.
• Scaling and Root Planing: If necessary, our dental hygienist will perform scaling and root planing, also known as a deep cleaning, which involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and smoothing out the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from sticking to them.
• Polishing: After scaling and root planing, our dental hygienist will polish your teeth to remove any remaining stains or plaque.
• Oral Hygiene Education: Our dental hygienist will provide oral hygiene education and tips to help you maintain good oral health at home.
• Follow-up: The dentist will schedule your next appointment for periodontal maintenance, typically three to four months later.

The Cost of Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings

On average, periodontal maintenance appointments can cost between $150 to $300. The cost will vary depending on the location, the experience of the dentist or periodontist, and your insurance coverage. In general, it’s more expensive than a regular dental cleaning, but most dental insurance plans cover all or a portion of the costs. Patients should check with their insurance provider to confirm coverage and out-of-pocket costs. Ask your dentist if they have any special discounts or provide financing options.

Here are some tips for saving money on periodontal maintenance cleanings:

• Ask your dentist about their payment plans. Some dentists offer discounts for paying in full or for setting up a payment plan.
• Look for a dental school or clinic in your area. Dental schools often offer discounted dental care under the supervision of experienced dentists.
• Check with your insurance company to see if they offer any coverage for periodontal maintenance.
• Compare prices between different dentists in your area.

How to Maintain Healthy Gums and Prevent Bleeding Gums at Home

To help keep periodontal disease from recurring, our Northridge dentist has provided tips on how to maintain healthy gums at home:

• Brush and floss teeth regularly. Maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent bone loss, which is a critical aspect of periodontal disease.
• Use mouthwash
• Quit smoking
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet
• Stay hydrated
• Keep up with a routine dental cleaning schedule

Finding a Periodontist

If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, it is essential to find a qualified periodontist to provide treatment. Here are some tips to help you find a periodontist:

• Ask for referrals: Ask your dentist or other healthcare professionals for recommendations.
• Check online directories: Look for periodontists in your area through online directories such as the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) or the American Dental Association (ADA).
• Check credentials: Make sure the periodontist is licensed and certified by the AAP or ADA.
• Check experience: Look for a periodontist with experience in treating periodontal disease.
• Check reviews: Read online reviews from other patients to get an idea of the periodontist’s reputation and quality of care.

By following these tips, you can find a qualified periodontist to help you manage and treat periodontal disease effectively. Taking the time to find the right specialist can make a significant difference in your oral health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Protect Your Gums With Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal maintenance is a critical preventive treatment that can help patients manage and control the progression of periodontal disease. You should schedule a periodontal maintenance appointment if you have a history of gum disease or are at risk for developing gum disease. Periodontal maintenance helps preserve healthy gum tissue, which is essential for overall oral health. Dr. Gropp is willing to help you get the dental care you need.

Contact our Northridge dental office today to get your appointment scheduled.