Periodontal Treatment
PERIODONTAL (GUM) DISEASE TREATMENT IN MORENO VALLEY
Good dental health goes beyond healthy teeth. Your gums need attention as well! Nearly half of all US adults over 30 have some form of gum disease, yet many don’t pursue treatment until symptoms are severe.
At Young S. Lim Family Dentistry, we take care of the entire mouth to protect your wellbeing. Dr. Lim works by the motto “Keep Moreno Valley Smiling,” and puts his skills to work promoting the health of Moreno Valley patients of all ages. Keep your gums in good shape by scheduling an appointment today!
WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?
Your gums serve the essential function of anchoring and protecting the roots of your teeth. However, they are vulnerable to irritation and infection. When gums are frequently irritated – usually by bacteria and plaque – they can become inflamed, developing a disease called gingivitis.
This first stage of gum disease is easy to treat with good oral hygiene and a thorough dental cleaning. If left untreated, however, it can progress into a more serious gum disease – periodontitis.
At this stage, the gums have become infected. They become swollen, tender to the touch, sensitive to heat and cold, and may begin to pull away from the teeth. The infection may even spread from the gums to other areas of the body, creating secondary infections.
PERIODONTAL DISEASE TREATMENT
When periodontitis has set in, a more thorough treatment is necessary. The dentist typically performs a procedure called scaling and root planing.
First, the teeth are thoroughly cleaned. The dentist or her staff will then use special tools to remove tartar below the gum line, along the root of the tooth. Once all irritant is removed, the dentist smooths out the root surface, making it easier for the gums to heal back into place and secure the tooth.
If the infection is severe, an antibiotic may be needed in addition to root scaling and planing.
TAKING GOOD CARE OF YOUR GUMS
Your gums require attention just like your teeth do. When brushing, be careful to brush gently along the gum line so they don’t become irritated. Floss up to the gum line and keep your floss in a C shape around the tooth, rather than a straight line.
Avoid sugary and acidic foods, which promote bacterial growth and can harm your gums. If you are prone to acid reflux, discuss treatment options with your doctor to minimize the risk of acid damage to your gums.
If your gums bleed, or are tender to the touch, schedule a dental visit to have your gum health evaluated.
DENTAL CARE FOR YOUR ENTIRE WELLBEING
Young S. Lim Family Dentistry knows that good dentistry doesn’t just stop at your mouth. We provide a fun, welcoming environment for our patients, and make every effort to offer a broad spectrum of services to meet the needs of our patients.
Dr. Lim helps patients across Moreno Valley achieve healthy, beautiful smiles, and looks forward to helping you do the same. Schedule your next visit with us today!