Dr. Firlik and her team wants you to maintain a healthy smile and will help you achieve that. We are at war with gum disease – also known as periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a very serious disease. Patients with this disease have deep pockets around their teeth that collect harmful bacteria.
What can you do at home to prevent gum disease?
However, if you are concerned that you have periodontal disease, even at its beginning stage, we will want to discuss that with you. How Dr. Firlik Diagnoses Gum Disease Dr. Frilik and our hygienist will examine you for receding gums. They will measure the depth of gingival (gum) pockets around your teeth to determine the existence of periodontal disease. During your exam, they will look for signs of:
If you are found to have periodontal disease, they will discuss the stage of the disease and the recommended treatment for gum disease. Four Stages of Periodontal Disease There are four stages which share several common symptoms and which tend to progress from one to the next if not treated properly and quickly. Gingivitis – The first stage is a result of plaque buildup around teeth, and it can be reversed if bone damage has not occurred. The signs are few and often painless, which is why it is common but no less concerning. Common signs can include some or all of these:
Slight Periodontitis – The second stage is not reversible, but can be managed. Routine oral hygiene will not resolve this. In this stage infection usually has spread to the bone, and bacteria multiply and begin to cause bone loss. Common signs can include some or all of these:
Moderate Periodontitis – Similar to stage two periodontitis, it cannot be reversed. At this stage, all the symptoms of stage two are present, but the gingival pocket depth will increase to 6-7 millimeters. This allows for more bacterial damage to the bone, but also to the bloodstream and the immune system. Without any treatment, this stage will lead to:
Advanced Periodontitis – The final stage of periodontal disease. Infection deepens and bacteria become disease-causing. Bone loss risk can now be at 50 – 90%; bone loss is imminent, along with swollen gums that ooze puss; cold sensitivity; pain when chewing; severe halitosis; and further loosening of teeth. At this stage, the only recourse is periodontal surgery or laser therapy. If left untreated, the result likely will lead to:
Scheduling regular yearly check-ups can prevent this serious disease from progressing. Treating Periodontal Disease at Firlik Family Dentistry Periodontal disease is often not reversible. Our immediate goal then is to prevent or to minimize its progression. To achieve that, Dr. Firlik offers root planing and scaling treatment to remove tartar and plaque found in and around the gingival pockets of a patient’s teeth. This provides the best chance to slow or stop gum recession. Our team at Firlik Family Dentistry in Grand Rapids, MI will help you conquer periodontal disease and achieve a much healthier smile. To request an appointment, call Firlik Family Dentistry at (616) 361-0603. |
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Firlik Family Dentistry
6225 W River Dr NE Belmont, MI 49306 (616) 361-0603 drfirlik@drfirlik.com Preventive Dentistry Bonding & White Fillings Dental Cleanings & Exams Dental Sealants Fluoride Treatment Gum Disease Treatment Cosmetic Dentistry Inlays & Onlays Porcelain Veneers ZOOM! Teeth Whitening Orthodontics Invisalign Orthotropics Restorative Dentistry All-On-4 Dental Implants Dental Bridges Dental Crowns Dental Implants Dentures Additional Dentistry Night Guards Protective Mouth Guards Sleep Apnea Treatment TMJ Therapy (TMD Therapy) Wisdom Teeth Removal Dental Emergencies |
Firlik Family Dentistry
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