Periodontal (Gum) Disease Therapy

Dentist in Dallas, TX

Periodontal (gum) disease is the result of bacteria building up onto your teeth and under the gums. When the natural bacteria in your mouth start to collect on the teeth, they can create a sticky, colorless substance known as “plaque.” Plaque is a combination of saliva, food debris and bacteria that builds up and sticks to your teeth. If it is not removed during brushing or flossing, the calcium in your saliva can harden and turn this into tartar. Over time, plaque and tartar become more difficult to remove at home so a professional cleaning with our Dallas dentist is important for maintaining your oral health, and preventing decay and periodontal disease.

The longer the plaque and tartar remain on the teeth, the more harm they can cause to your oral health. Eventually plaque and tartar will create a mild form of gum disease called gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gum tissue. Ideally, routine cleanings and proper oral care can prevent gingivitis from developing. Once gum disease is prevalent, our dentists can help maintain the disease and prevent it from progressing.

In cases where gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to a more severe form of periodontal disease or periodontitis. Inflammation affects the soft tissue (gums) and supporting bone around the teeth, creating pockets between them. If left untreated, the pockets become deep and can cause teeth to become loose or even fall out.

Periodontal (Gum) Disease Treatment

For more information on periodontal disease, contact our Dallas, TX dentist.