Periodontal care is an area of dental health focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. The term "periodontal" originates from "peri," meaning around, and "odontal," referring to teeth. Periodontal care is all about the health of the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. It's a crucial aspect of oral health, since untreated periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and contribute to other systemic health issues. In Eau Claire, periodontal care is expertly provided by experienced dental professionals like Dr. Erin Tollefson and Dr. Joe Bartlett at Valley Edge Dental.
The first step in the periodontal care process is a comprehensive oral examination. This includes a visual inspection of your teeth and gums, as well as the use of advanced diagnostic tools such as digital X-rays. The dentist will check for signs of gum inflammation, gum recession, loose teeth, and other symptoms of periodontal disease. They will also measure the depth of your gum pockets, the spaces between your teeth and gums. Deep pockets often indicate the presence of periodontal disease.
If periodontal disease is detected, the next step is deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. This is a non-surgical procedure that involves removing dental plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line (scaling), and smoothing out the roots of the teeth to eliminate bacterial toxins (root planing). This procedure helps to reduce inflammation and allows the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth.
After the deep cleaning procedure, ongoing maintenance and care are vital to prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease. This typically involves regular dental check-ups and cleanings, as well as good oral hygiene practices at home, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily. The dentist may also recommend specific products or treatments to help maintain your gum health.
