periodontics
non surgical periodontic treatment
Dr. Sprowls offers periodontal therapy for the prevention and treatment of gum disease. It is estimated that 3 of every 4 adults is affected by gum disease, which when left untreated can lead to tooth loss and contribute to health risks such as heart disease and diabetes.
In many cases, patients are unaware of the presence of gum disease until either it is spotted during a routine visit with Dr. Sprowls or has advanced and begun to cause damage to the teeth and gums.
Depending on your specific condition, there are a variety of treatment options for gum disease. After a thorough exam, Dr. Sprowls will recommend the option best suited for restoring your oral health.
PREVENTING GUM DISEASE
Dr. Sprowls emphasizes the benefits of routine dental care when it comes to reducing the risk of developing gum disease. During these visits, she and her staff take the time to offer personalized oral hygiene tips to help you maintain healthy gums between visits.
WHY DO MY GUMS BLEED?
It is not normal for gums to bleed when brushing or flossing your teeth. Yet, a number of patients come to us with concerns about bleeding gums or sore gums. There are a number of reasons why gums bleed. In some cases, it may simply be that the patient is brushing their teeth too hard, using a toothbrush with too firm of bristles, or being overly aggressive when flossing. The gums are an extremely sensitive tissue and you should be careful not to abrade or cut the gum tissue and cause bleeding.
Women are commonly affected by gum disease and bleeding gums during pregnancy due to hormonal changes taking place in the body. Pregnant women should continue to brush and floss, but be extra cautious around sensitive gum tissue to prevent bleeding. It is important to maintain routine visits to the dentist during pregnancy to monitor gum health.
ABOUT GUM DISEASE
Bacteria that is found in plaque is the main cause of periodontal disease; however, several other factors can tribute or put you at increased risk. These factors include: genetics/family history, smoking/tobacco use, clenching/grinding, hormones, diabetes, medications, stress, poor oral hygiene, person to person transmission, and lack of routine six month dental check-ups or proper periodontal maintenance follow-up from past periodontal treatment.
Dr. Sprowls provides periodontal therapy to treat the various stages of gum disease and will recommend appropriate treatment after a thorough exam and determination of the stage of gum disease present.
COMMON SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Red, swollen or sore gums
Bleeding gums
Receding gums
Loose teeth
Mouth sores or pus between gums and teeth
Bad breath (halitosis)
Changes in the fit of dentures
If you notice any of the above signs of gum disease, schedule an appointment with Dr. Sprowls.