If you have periodontal disease, you’re at an increased risk for tooth loss. In Corpus Christi, Texas, the team at Kenneth Gonzales, DDS, PLLC provides comprehensive care to help you prevent or treat periodontal disease. If you have puffy, bleeding gums, it’s imperative for you to call the office or use the online scheduler to book an appointment as soon as possible.
Periodontal disease, also called gum disease or periodontitis, is a serious gum infection. Left untreated, the disease can progress into the deterioration of bone and tissue. If you have periodontal disease, you’re at risk of losing your teeth because the disease attacks the tissues that hold your teeth in position.
Common signs and symptoms of periodontal disease are:
It’s possible that you can have periodontal disease without exhibiting any symptoms, which is why it’s necessary to maintain regular checkups with Dr. Gonzales.
Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of periodontal disease. Without adequate brushing and flossing, bacteria can collect on your teeth and turn into sticky plaque.
When the bacteria and toxins present in plaque begin to irritate your gums, an infection called gingivitis occurs. If the infection spreads, the surrounding bone and tissue weaken and lead to pervasive periodontal disease.
In addition to inadequate brushing and flossing, you’re at higher risk for periodontal disease if you smoke, drink sugary beverages, have diabetes, or are experiencing hormone fluctuations related to menopause.
Periodontal disease occurs in three stages. The first stage is gingivitis when the disease is highly treatable and even reversible.
Without treatment, gingivitis worsens into periodontal and advanced periodontal disease.
Dr. Kenneth Gonzales can stop periodontal disease in its tracks. After a thorough examination of your mouth to see how far the disease has progressed, he may use one or a combination of several methods to treat it, including:
Dr. Gonzales fully customizes your treatment plan to suit your oral health history and the severity of your periodontal disease.
To restore your dental health and soothe your irritated gums, call Kenneth Gonzales, DDS, PLLC, or use the online scheduler to book a consultation.
