Periodontal disease, or periodontist, is a condition that affects about half of Americans aged 30 or older. Though it is common, a lot of patients are unfamiliar with the disease and how to prevent it. Periodontitis is most commonly discovered by your general dentist at your routine cleaning appointment and will often require a visit to a dental surgeon Rochester NY to be resolved. A gum surgeon is referred to as a periodontist.
Periodontal disease is an infection that affects the gums, teeth, and jaw. If left untreated, periodontal disease can cause many complications, including the loss of teeth and bone loss in the jaw. Periodontitis can be treated with a few different procedures depending on your needs, and an experienced periodontal surgeon can typically restore your oral health.
How Your Dental Surgeon Rochester NY Can Treat Periodontal Disease
Periodontitis occurs when gingivitis goes untreated, and bacteria begin to destroy the gums, causing infected pockets to form between your teeth and gums. Depending on your specific needs, there are a few different regenerative procedures your dental surgeon Rochester NY may suggest. Laser treatment, pocket reduction procedures, and crown lengthening procedures are a few options that may be necessary to restore your oral health. These procedures help to stop the growth of harmful bacteria, reshape your jawline, and restore your smile to a healthy and natural look. In many cases, removing the bacteria and repairing the damage is all you need to get back to your original, healthy smile and stop the damaging effects of the disease. You will, however, still need to continue with regularly scheduled appointments with your periodontist for checkups.
Tips for Preventing Periodontal Disease
Whether you’re at risk for developing periodontal disease or have recently been treated for it, there are several things you can do to prevent the onset of periodontitis. General oral healthcare can go a long way in keeping your mouth healthy and in top shape. Since periodontitis is caused by the bacteria in the build-up of plaque, preventing that plaque build-up is key to preventing excess bacteria. Understanding common risk factors, and keeping regular periodontal appointments are also vital parts of avoiding future periodontal disease. Here are the top 5 tips for preventing plaque build-up that can lead to periodontitis:
1. Brush Regularly
The ADA recommends brushing your teeth twice per day for two minutes, making sure to fully get inside and outside surfaces of teeth and the tongue as well. It is also essential to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or more often if it starts to get frayed.
2. Floss Daily
Flossing at least once daily prevents food particles from getting stuck between your teeth and causing a build-up of plaque. Floss first, then brush your teeth for maximum results.
3. Utilize Antiseptic Mouthwash
Aside from making your breath smell fresh, antiseptic mouthwash can remove bacteria in hard-to-reach places that you may have missed with flossing and brushing.
4. Understand Risk Factors
Understanding risks that increase your likelihood of developing periodontal disease are vital to preventing the disease. A few risk factors include:
Smoking – Studies show tobacco use is the most significant risk factor in developing periodontitis.
Stress – Since stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection, higher levels of stress can increase the likelihood of developing periodontitis.
Grinding Your Teeth – Grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw can put unnecessary pressure on the structures of your teeth and may increase the rate they are destroyed.
Other Diseases – Diabetes interferes with the body’s inflammatory system and may worsen the condition of the gums.
Unhealthy Dietary Choices – Since periodontal disease begins as an infection, a diet low in vital nutrients can inhibit the body’s ability to fight the infection.
5. Regular Periodontal Check-Ups
If you have suffered from periodontitis in the past, you will need to visit your Rochester dental surgeon for regular periodontal cleaning every three months to ensure your mouth stays healthy. You may be alternating your cleanings between your periodontist and general dentist.
If you’ve been referred to a dental surgeon in Rochester, NY, to treat periodontal disease, know that you are in good hands with Dr. Zahavi. Following the tips above, in addition to regular visits with Dr. Zahavi, can help to prevent periodontal disease from occurring again.
Contact Dr. Zahavi For a Consultation
Schedule a consultation with your Rochester dental surgeon, Dr. Zahavi of Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester, today by calling us at 585.685.2005 or by filling out our form online.