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Hygiene And Periodontal (Gum) Disease Dentistry Services
 The role of the Hygiene Department is to educate patients and provide supportive therapy to assist them in overcoming one of the most common diseases known to mankind. Surprisingly, periodontal disease affects as much as 80% of the adult population.
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth. The infection occurs when the bacteria becomes imbedded in plaque (a film that sticks to teeth) and tartar (calculus). This is the primary cause of bad breath and loss of teeth among adults. Some of the more noticeable symptoms, which are usually painless, include swollen or bleeding gums and a foul taste in the mouth. The foul taste is a result of sulfur toxins, which are released from bacteria building up in the gums and around the teeth. Although these symptoms are subtle and often go unnoticed, there are more serious ones such as tooth loosening - caused by bone loss - which can lead to painful and potentially life threatening infections. Advanced periodontal disease is debilitating, causing patients to become chronically run-down and fatigued by overloading the immune system in its fight against the infection. Long term studies by medical institutions, including Harvard University, clearly demonstrate periodontal disease is closely linked to coronary heart disease.
Periodontal disease can best be prevented by avoiding tobacco use, practicing proper oral hygiene habits, and undergoing a thorough dental examination including a periodontal evaluation. Laser treatments, as well as debridement procedures (referred to as periodontal therapy), can be utilized to correct periodontal disease. Advanced cases may require antibiotic therapy, removal of infectious deposits, or tissue surgery. Taking some medications result in a "dry mouth," which can adversely affect the health of gum tissue.
Patients that require extensive tooth restoration and have a periodontal condition often ask us how long their investment in corrective procedures will last. The long-term success of tooth restorations, which include fillings, crowns, and bridgework is dependent upon continual hygiene maintenance of the supportive gums and jawbone. Restorations last 2 to 3 times longer if the supportive tissues are maintained in a healthy condition.
Our older patients have restorations that are still in a serviceable condition after 30 or more years of use. They all have the same factors in common: healthy gums that are free of periodontal disease. Before any of our patients proceed with restorative treatment, they will first pass through our hygiene department with a clean bill of health for their gums.
There is great concern about periodontal disease and how it relates to coronary heart disease. Periodontal disease will not go away by itself. Preventing and treating the disease in the early stages is the best way to keep a healthy smile.
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925.692.2010