Your gums are the foundation of your smile. If these supporting tissues become inflamed, irritated or infected, it can pose a real threat to your teeth as well as your overall health. When plaque build-up coats the teeth, it irritates gum tissue and causes infection of the gums. In most cases, gum disease can be prevented with good hygiene (regular brushing and flossing), and regular in-office teeth cleanings.
At the regular dental check-up appointments, our trained hygienists check for the depth of the pockets on your gums. If the pocket depth reaches 5 millimeters, our dentists may schedule a treatment to help reverse mild gum disease (gingivitis) or treat more advanced gum disease (periodontitis). At Lake Ridge Smiles, we offer a variety of periodontal treatments to protect your oral health:
Periodontitis refers to the advanced stage of gum disease. At this point, the infection within the gums may cause the gums to recede or pull away from the tooth roots. Often, deep pockets of gum tissue form that harbor bacteria and worsen the infection. If left alone, periodontitis may also result in the destruction of underlying bone, which may cause the teeth to lose stability and even fall out. Advanced gum disease that is not properly treated can also impact one’s systemic health and has been linked to diabetes, stroke, heart attack and premature birth.
At Lake Ridge Smiles, we provide complete periodontal treatment for your utmost convenience in our dental office in Woodbridge, VA. We use the most proven techniques and technology available to treat periodontitis and help you avoid such serious consequences.
To learn more about how our top ranked dentists can treat your gums, please contact Lake Ridge Smiles today.