Periodontal Care

The gums, bone, and ligaments that surround and support your teeth are just as important as the teeth themselves. When these tissues are not healthy, the stability of the entire dentition can be affected over time.

Gum disease is one of the most common dental conditions affecting adults. In many cases, it progresses without significant pain, which means it can go unnoticed until it has reached a more advanced stage. Regular dental examinations allow us to identify early signs and address them before they become more complex.

Research has also documented links between periodontal health and systemic conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory health. While a causal relationship is still being studied, the connection is well established enough that we consider gum assessment an integral part of every comprehensive dental visit.

Gum disease begins with bacterial plaque, the soft film that forms continuously on teeth and along the gumline. When plaque is not adequately removed through brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar and accumulate below the gumline, triggering an inflammatory response in the gum tissue.

Several factors can increase a person's susceptibility to gum disease or affect how quickly it progresses:

• Plaque buildup , Inadequate or inconsistent oral hygiene allows bacteria to accumulate at and below the gumline.
• Smoking and tobacco use , Tobacco use is one of the most significant risk factors for periodontal disease and can also mask early symptoms such as gum bleeding.
• Certain medications , Some medications, including those for blood pressure, seizures, and depression, can affect gum tissue, causing overgrowth or dryness that changes the oral environment.
• Genetics , Some individuals are genetically predisposed to periodontal disease and may develop it despite good oral hygiene habits.
• Systemic conditions , Conditions such as diabetes can affect the body's ability to manage infection and inflammation, including in the gums. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also temporarily affect gum sensitivity and response.