Periodontics is a field of dentistry that manages oral infections related to the gum and bone tissues that support your teeth. Believe it or not, the leading cause of tooth loss in Oklahoma City is not the result of accidents or tooth decay, but periodontal (gum) disease.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
How can you tell whether you have gum disease? Some of the most common symptoms include things like:
- Bleeding gums
- Swollen gum tissues
- Receding gumlines
- Gaps between teeth
- Halitosis
- “Pockets” under your gums
- Bone loss
- Tooth mobility
- Tartar buildup
During your dental exam, our periodontist will evaluate your teeth, gum attachment levels, and bone support throughout your mouth. In instances where there are moderate to severe areas of detached gum tissue (creating periodontal “pockets” around the tooth), a series of therapeutic deep cleanings will likely be recommended.
The Link Between Your Mouth and Overall Health
Untreated gum disease is proven to statistically raise your risk of significant medical problems, such as heart attack, stroke, pneumonia, diabetes, infertility (in both men and women), and stillbirths. The good news is that by working with our OKC periodontist, you can lower the bacterial levels inside of your mouth and prevent them from spreading into your bloodstream. After gum therapy, most people with underlying medical concerns tend to see an improvement in their overall wellness within several weeks.
Free Consultations & 2nd Opinions
With Dr. Vinh Vu
Dr. Vu and the team at Dynamic Dental are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have. We take the time to listen to your needs & set forth an individualized treatment plan.
What if I Need Gum Surgery?
In instances where chronic gum disease is jeopardizing the integrity of your smile, our periodontist may recommend soft tissue surgery or bone augmentation (grafting.) By stabilizing and strengthening your bone and gum tissues, we can further protect the teeth that they support. In turn, you can lower your chances of tooth loss and preserve your natural smile for years to come.
Long Term Maintenance
Periodontal maintenance visits are recommended for anyone who has completed gum disease treatment to help prevent relapse. These intermittent cleanings help manage bacterial levels in hard-to-reach gum pockets where brushing and flossing do not reach. Depending on your situation, you may want to plan an appointment every 3-4 months.
