Unlike most diseases that give early warning signs, gum disease progresses silently, often without pain. It may develop slowly or progress quite rapidly. More than half of all people over 18 have at least early stages of periodontal disease. Even more frightening, after the age of 35, three out of four people are affected to some degree. Periodontal disease is an infection that destroys the gum surrounding your teeth and also destroys the supporting bone that holds your teeth in place.

• Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
• Gums that are red, swollen or tender
• Gums that are pulled away from teeth
• Pus between teeth and gums when gums are pressed
• Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
• Change in the way your teeth fit together when biting
• Any changes in the fit of partial dentures
• Persistent bad breath

Early detection as with other diseases is the key to successful treatment. Dr. Downing will perform a disease-screening exam.
This is recommended at least once a year by the American Dental Association.The results of this exam will determine your periodontal status. If you have periodontal disease your treatment will be personalized for you and your level of infection.

A Routine Cleaning is NOT by itself able to treat Periodontal Disease!

The treatment (root planing & sealing) consists of professional in-office care that detoxifies the tooth surface below the gum line and in between the teeth. Then a medicine will be used to flush out the bacteria that caused this infection.

Besides your daily home care to remove plaque bacteria, Dr. Downing will recommend the appropriate interval of maintenance care. You will probably need to increase your hygiene visits from 2 to maybe 3 or 4 times per year to maintain the health achieved through your soft tissue management treatment program.

Periodontal disease can be controlled! Without careful on-going monitoring and treatment, periodontal disease can re-occur.
Your daily care and professional maintenance visits are a commitment to better health.