Sarasota Gum Disease Treatment

The most common disease in the United States is not the one what you might think. Heart disease, stroke, or cancer come to mind, but actually gum disease is the single most prevalent disease in America. In fact, it affects more people than heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer combined. About 80% of the population has some form of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease: gingivitis (mild) and periodontitis (advanced).

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an infection of the gums and bone that support teeth; it usually starts early in life and then progresses as a person ages. It all starts when plaque hardens into tartar (also called calculus) below the gum line. This irritates vulnerable soft tissues, and infection can set in. Combined with decaying food, particles lodged between teeth, and plaque formed by bacteria, an infection can spread quickly. In its early phase, symptoms are so mild that many patients don’t recognize them; so please be aware of red, tender, swollen and/or bleeding gums, particularly when brushing.

As the condition progresses, gums recede from teeth, and pockets of bacteria are formed. If not addressed, these bacteria will advance and destroy gum tissue and bone, causing tooth loss and even more bone loss.  However, we can detect early signs of gum disease at your regular dental checkups. At this stage, prevention might be as simple as changing your brushing technique, improving your flossing routine, or changing the products you use for oral care at home.

Once gum disease sets in, we can often treat it with non-surgical therapy, including:

* Scaling - to remove hardened plaque from below the gum line

* Root Planing - to reduce and smooth the rough areas that collect plaque and bacteria

* Antibiotic Therapy - to battle infection and to prevent its spread

On occasion, a patient receiving treatment for gum disease might be advised to attend more frequent hygiene visits so that Dr. Hoffman or his hygienists can better monitor his or her progress, thus making sure that recovery is right on track.

Why Is Gum Disease So Serious?

Current research reveals that gum disease is linked to increased risk for major overall health problems, including but not limited to stroke, heart disease, respiratory problems, osteoporosis, diabetes, low birth weight, and, most recently, dementia. Clinical research continues, but these health problems are why regular checkups and hygiene visits are vital, not only to our oral health, but also to our overall health.

Your Oral Health Is Our Number One Priority
& Dental Emergencies are Always Welcome!

We will work together to address your oral health, comfort, function, and your aesthetic concerns. Call Parkway Ridge Dental today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hoffman and our team. Our office, conveniently located on N. Lockwood Ridge Rd. at University Parkway, provides dental care to patients from the surrounding areas of Sarasota, Bradenton, University Park and Lakewood Ranch.

We Make People Smile For a Living!