If plaque and tartar are left on the teeth, it provides the right conditions for bacteria to thrive. The bacteria often irritate the gums, sometimes causing your gums to bleed when you are brushing your teeth or eating. This is the early stage of gum disease called gingivitis. If you have gingivitis, your dentist or hygienist will clean and polish your teeth.
If gingivitis is not treated, the inflammation will work its way down towards the foundations of the tooth, causing a “periodontal pocket” and creating even more damage. This is called periodontal disease or gum disease and is manifested by the breakdown of the support structures of the teeth so that eventually they will become loose. If gum disease is caught in time, its progression can be halted and improved upon.
To stop gum disease from progressing, your knowledgeable dentists, Dr. Pevow and Dr. Robbins, may advise periodontal therapy including deep cleaning or scaling and root planing. This gets rid of the bacteria in the pocket and provides the necessary conditions for healing to occur. By scaling away tartar and smoothing the root, a silky smooth surface is created, limiting the damage caused by bacteria and helping your gums maintain a healthy state. For more information on gum treatment in Austin, Texas, we welcome you to contact us today at Anderson Lane Dental. We are dedicated to helping you improve your oral health.
