Periodontal Treatment in Milwaukee, WI
Healthy gums are essential for a strong, beautiful smile. Our gums hold our teeth in place, allowing us to chew, bite, speak, and laugh easily. Our gum tissue provides structure and support for our teeth and links to other bones and tissues in the body. We can usually tell a lot about a person’s oral health based on the health of their gums.
The Importance of Gum Health and Preventing Periodontal Disease
Did you know that about 80 percent of people have gum disease? Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, can affect a person’s oral and general health. People often don’t even know they have gum disease until it’s already affected their oral health in some way.
Gum disease is caused by a persistent bacterial infection around the teeth. Often, gum disease materializes as red, puffy, or swollen gums, bad breath, and bleeding. Irritated gums can recede from the teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can accumulate and flourish.
Other times, gum disease can lead to tooth mobility and tooth loss. If gum disease isn’t controlled and the infection spreads, it can compromise gum tissue, teeth, and bones. Also, it can cause serious conditions, like heart disease, diabetes, and complications with pregnancy.
Am I at Risk for Gum Disease?
There are many risk factors associated with gum disease, such as:
- Smoking or using tobacco products
- Hormone changes
- Stress
- Bruxism
- Some medications
- Diabetes
- Unhealthy diet
- Immunosuppression
- Heredity
- Inadequate oral hygiene
Even those who practice good oral hygiene can still have gum disease. So, it’s highly recommended to have regular exams and cleanings to ensure your smile stays healthy and disease-free.
How Do I Know If My Gums Are Healthy?
Healthy gums are firm and pink, and they will not bleed when you brush or floss. If your gums are sensitive or swollen, you may need periodontal care to ensure your health. Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is essential for keeping your gums in excellent condition.
Customized Periodontal Care in West Allis, WI
Dr. Robert Monteagudo and our team help patients offer periodontal care so patients can have healthy smiles for life. Our periodontal care includes performing gum health evaluations and regular cleanings. We also screen for oral cancer and take any necessary digital x-rays.
In the early stages of gum disease, we can treat the condition with non-invasive periodontal therapy. Regular dental check-ups drastically increase your chance of early detection and conservative, non-invasive treatment.
Typically, periodontal treatment includes:
- Effective flossing and brushing instruction
- Professional deep cleanings
- Gum pocket irrigation
- Local antibiotics
Many patients experience immediate relief and improvement. However, if symptoms don’t improve, our team can develop a more effective treatment plan.
Some extreme cases may require surgical treatment to control the disease and restore one’s oral health. Four common surgical treatments include:
- Reduction of gum pocket depth
- Regeneration of bone or tissue
- Crown lengthening
- Soft tissue grafting
Procedures such as these can improve a person’s likelihood of keeping their natural teeth for life.
Contact Us to Keep Your Natural Smile Healthy and Strong!
At Wisconsin Smiles, we provide comprehensive periodontal therapy so that you can enjoy a functional, attractive, and disease-free grin. Whether you have swollen, red gums or deep gum pockets, we have an effective treatment for you.
If you have any questions or concerns about gum disease or treatment options, please contact our dental office today for a no-obligation consultation.
