At Cormier Family Dentistry, we believe strongly that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. While most patients know that regular tooth brushing and flossing are important to prevent cavities and tooth decay, many don’t realize that prevention of periodontal disease, or gum disease – the leading cause of adult tooth loss – relies on good oral health habits as well. This is why we offer a comprehensive range of dental hygiene services and gum disease treatment options at our Shreveport family dentistry practice.
We encourage overall oral health care and wellness at Cormier Family Dentistry. This means that we support our patients in maintaining impeccable oral health habits to promote both oral hygiene and to preserve periodontal health. This includes maintaining daily tooth brushing and flossing. It also includes regular cleanings and checkups to remove plaque that normal brushing does not reach.
We would welcome the opportunity to becoming partners with you and your family in good oral health for a lifetime. To schedule your initial consultation with one of our esteemed dentists, please contact Cormier Family Dentistry today.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is a disease of the gums. Bacteria gathers in the pockets of the gums, creating infection that can lead to bleeding gums, tooth decay, and eventually tooth loss or the need for tooth extraction, as well as damage to the jaw bones. In its latter stages, periodontal disease causes the gums to recede away from the teeth.
Periodontal disease first presents as gingivitis, which is simply an inflammation of the gums. Patients with gingivitis may notice bleeding or swelling of the gums when the brush their teeth or when they floss. In these early stages, intervention is essential to preventing further complications. Patients are able to treat gingivitis by making sure to floss regularly. The addition of a gentle mouthwash with antibacterial properties and the use of a Waterpik can improve patient outcomes dramatically.
Once gum disease progresses further, patients will require additional treatment in the dental office. Periodontitis not only affects the gums, but also it begins to infect the bone tissues of the teeth and jaw. This condition may be painless, but it causes permanent damage as it progresses. It may be treated effectively with increased attention to oral health, frequent in office cleanings that scale plaque and calculus from the gum line.
It is important to note that hormonal changes that women experience during pregnancy can increase the effects of gingivitis and gum disease. Bleeding gums often occur during pregnancy, but subside once patients have given birth. If you have concerns about pregnancy and gum disease or other oral health concerns, please feel free to contact us.
How do you screen for gum disease?
During your regular dental check-ups we will visually assess your teeth and gums for overall signs of health. We may also complete a periodontal screening that measures the recession of your gums to determine if periodontal disease is present. If we determine that you have gingivitis or a more advanced periodontal condition, we will make recommendations to treat the condition. This treatment may include adhering to strict daily oral care practices, the inclusion of a prescription strength antibacterial wash in your everyday routine, increased cleanings, as well as the mediation of any decay.
As with all oral health issues, periodontal disease is easier to control the sooner it is discovered. While there are many excellent tooth replacement options available, including dental bridges and dental implants, it is always best to preserve your natural teeth. Regular oral health screening and compliant oral hygiene are the primary ways to prevent the development or spread of a periodontal disease. To schedule your regular dental check-up or gum disease treatment, please contact our Shreveport office or call us at +1 318-868-4072. Cormier Family Dentistry is proud to offer dental hygiene services and gum disease treatment to patients from throughout Louisiana, including Bossier City, Minden, Stonewall, and Keithville.
