Alex J. Mercado DDS
Gum Disease
Periodontal Gum Disease
Welcome to SacSmiles, the leading Sacramento dentist dedicated to your dental health. At Dr. Mercado’s practice, we understand the importance of preventing periodontitis, commonly known as gum disease, which can cause irreversible damage to your gums, bone, and even lead to tooth loss. Our team is here to provide you with effective treatments and help you maintain a healthy smile.
Periodontitis is a preventable infection that occurs due to the buildup of plaque and tartar, which harbor harmful bacteria. If left untreated, these bacteria can cause various warning signs such as bleeding gums, receding gums, swollen gums, and even tooth mobility in severe cases. It’s crucial to recognize these signs and seek professional dental care to address the issue.
Our skilled dentists at SacSmiles are experienced in detecting and treating gum and periodontal diseases. Through regular check-ups and professional cleanings, we can remove the plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be effectively eliminated with home remedies alone. By addressing gum disease early on, we can help prevent further damage and improve your oral health.
Moreover, it’s important to note that untreated gum disease can have serious implications for your overall health. Research has linked periodontitis to an increased risk of stroke and heart attack. By prioritizing your dental health and seeking timely treatment, you can safeguard not only your smile but also your general well-being.
At SacSmiles, we are committed to providing comprehensive dental care and educating our patients about the importance of preventing gum disease. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a healthy, beautiful smile. Your oral health is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease is broken down into three stages of varying severity: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. At the stage of gingivitis, inflammation causes the pockets formed by the gums around the teeth to expand. This space between the teeth and gums can be measured by your dentist to determine the scope of damage. If your dentist measures this space to be over three millimeters, this leaves room for further complications.
When gingivitis becomes periodontitis, prolonged exposure to plaque and tartar create even greater space between the gums and teeth. At this stage bone loss has begun and the gums bleed easily.
The final stage is advanced periodontitis where bone loss could be severe. The gap between the teeth and gums has allowed bacteria to slip all the way to the socket and roots of the teeth. At this stage the prevalence of bacteria loosens the tooth from the bone and immediate treatment is necessary to prevent the loss of teeth.
Gum Disease Treatment
In the early stage of gum disease, treatment could be as simple as having your dental cleaning more frequently. This allows your dentist to remove the tartar before it has a chance to cause serious damage. As gum disease progresses, deeper cleanings, called dental scaling, are necessary to remove plaque and tartar that has made its way deeper under the gums. With the use of anesthetic, this should feel no different than a typical cleaning. In some cases, a device similar to a tooth whitening tray is used for medication to penetrate deeper under your gums. In more severe cases, laser or oral surgery could be necessary to eliminate the damage caused by the bacteria and treat the receding gums.
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From routine cleanings to fillings and bruxism devices, Dr. Mercado is equipped to handle all your dental needs. Click below to browse our services.
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