You brush and floss daily, so your teeth and gums should be safe, right? Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Even with good at-home care, gum disease can creep in, putting your teeth at risk. Without regular periodontal maintenance, bacteria can build up beneath the gum line, leading to inflammation, bone loss, and, eventually, tooth loss. The good news? With proper professional care, you can keep your gums healthy and protect your smile for years to come.
At Advanced Periodontics of N.J., we understand the importance of periodontal maintenance in preventing bone loss and preserving your oral health. Our experienced team utilizes advanced diagnostic tools and proven treatment techniques to monitor and maintain your gums, helping to minimize the risk of severe periodontal disease. With a devotion to personalized care, we strive to protect your natural teeth and support your long-term oral health.
Why Is Periodontal Heath Important for Your Teeth and Gums?
When most people think about oral health, the primary focus is often their teeth. However, your gums and jawbone are equally important because they provide the foundation for a strong, healthy smile. Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, affects these structures and can have serious consequences if left untreated. In the United States, nearly half (42%) of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease.
Gum disease starts with plaque build-up. When bacteria gathers on the teeth and gums, they trigger inflammation, leading to the earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis. Symptoms of gingivitis can include redness, swelling, and bleeding, especially when you brush and floss. If not treated, gingivitis can progress into more advanced forms of periodontitis. In the most severe stages of gum disease, the gums and supporting structures will detach from the teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.
How Does Periodontal Maintenance Help Prevent Tooth Loss?
The good news is that periodontal maintenance can help prevent bone loss and keep your gums healthy. Periodontal maintenance involves regular deep cleanings, known as scaling and root planing, to stop further damage to the supporting structures of your teeth. Here is how these cleanings can help prevent tooth loss:
- Scaling and root planing removes harmful bacteria: Unlike a standard dental cleaning, which focuses on the surface level of the teeth, scaling and root planing extracts plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the tooth’s roots to prevent future bacteria build-up.
- Reduces gum inflammation and infection: Plaque and tartar builds-up, causing the gums to become inflamed, leading to bone deterioration. This is because the inflammation signals the immune system to attack the bacteria and surrounding tissue. Regular periodontal maintenance can help reduce inflammation and prevent the body from breaking down bone tissue in response to an infection.
- Prevents further progression of gum disease: Once periodontitis sets in, it can’t be reversed completely, but it can be managed. Periodontal maintenance is essential in controlling the condition and preventing it from becoming more severe. By staying on top of routine check-ups and cleanings, you can slow the progression of gum disease and reduce your risk of further bone loss.
- Helps maintain tooth stability: Jaw bone loss is a concern because it weakens the foundation that holds teeth in place. When your jawbone deteriorates, teeth can shift, loosen, and even fall out. By managing gum disease with periodontal maintenance, you can help safeguard the strength of your jawbone and keep your teeth stable.
- Promotes overall health: Gum disease isn’t just a problem for your dental health but can also have significant consequences on your overall health, including heart disease and diabetes. Regular periodontal maintenance is vital to your overall health by reducing your risk of health complications often associated with untreated gum disease.
The frequency of your periodontal maintenance depends on the severity of your gum disease. Because of this, your periodontist will recommend the best schedule for you based on your specific dental needs. If you notice any signs of periodontal disease, it’s critical you contact your periodontist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.
Protect Your Smile with Expert Care at Advanced Periodontics of N.J.
At Advanced Periodontics of N.J., we know how important your gums and jawbone are in keeping your smile healthy and strong. Periodontal maintenance is key in stopping bone loss, stabilizing your teeth, and reducing the risk of serious health complications linked to gum disease. Our knowledgeable team is committed to providing personalized, top-tier care to help you maintain optimal oral health for years to come.
Whether you need routine periodontal maintenance or more advanced treatment, we are here to help you protect your smile. With advanced diagnostic tools and tailored treatment plans, we make it easier to manage gum disease and prevent further complications. Take the first step toward a healthier smile—schedule an appointment with us today! Call (201) 940-7002 or visit our contact form.