$89 NEW PATIENT
SPECIAL
Comprehensive Exam
Bitewing X-Rays
Professional Cleaning
Cosmetic or Implant Consultation
Not valid with insurance submission. Does not apply with periodontal disease.
Non-Surgical Gum Care
Periodontal disease is an infection of the teeth and gums, as well as the bone that surrounds the teeth. If left untreated, it causes supporting bone to be lost from around the teeth. Periodontal disease is the number-one cause of tooth loss in the United States today. There are three stages to periodontal disease—gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis.
Plaque, a sticky film of food and bacteria, forms constantly on teeth. If it isn´t removed daily, it begins to harden and forms tartar (calculus). In this early stage, before bone loss has occurred, the gums become red and swollen; this is gingivitis.
As the plaque and tartar work their way down below the gum line, the gums begin to separate away from the teeth, forming pockets. Once a pocket has formed, the process accelerates, as new, even more destructive types of bacteria begin to populate the pocket. If the tartar isn´t removed by dental professionals, your body´s defensive reaction to the infection produces enzymes that cause the loss of supporting bone; this is periodontitis.
Over time, if periodontitis continues unchecked, this bone loss continues. Eventually, so much bone is lost that some of the teeth begin to loosen. This is advanced periodontitis.
PERIODONTAL DISEASE INCREASES YOUR RISK OF HEART DISEASE
Recent studies have shown that individuals with severe gum disease are four times more likely to suffer from coronary heart disease.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis recently discovered that this chronic infection in your mouth creates an open doorway for plaque bacteria to enter the bloodstream. These bacteria, called streptococcus sanguis, may cause blood clots that can block your arteries and even trigger a heart attack.
Other studies have shown that plaque bacteria entering the bloodstream through infected gums may also cause a potentially fatal heart disease called infective endocarditis. This is a bacterial infection which causes the sac around the heart to become inflamed.
HOW YOU CAN REDUCE YOUR RISK
Regular dental exams can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. So do your heart a favor. Brush, floss, and visit us twice a year for a checkup and cleaning!
