Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is an inflammatory condition usually caused by bacterial infections. It is said that as much as eighty percent of all Americans suffer from some form of gum disease, and it can lead to symptoms from mild discomfort all the way to tooth loss and jaw deterioration.

One of the most important discoveries in recent dental research is the impact our gum health has on our overall health. When our patients’ gum health is not optimal, we provide periodontal treatment to control the bacteria that cause inflammation of the gums and eventual loss of teeth. By controlling the bacteria in the mouth, not only are we seeing healthy, pink gums and preserving teeth, but we are also reducing the effects of the bacteria on the heart and other organs in the body. We use state-of-the-art equipment and laboratories in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease, including microscopes, ultrasonic instruments, and lasers. Our hygienists are top-notch, and provide this treatment in a pain-free, comfortable environment at all of our offices in Mesa and Chandler.

Periodontal disease is usually indicated by a variety of symptoms. If you have a combination of any of these signs, there is a chance that you may need gum disease treatment:

• Bleeding gums
• Teeth that appear longer (this is caused by tissue deterioration)
• Teeth that feel loose (also caused by tissue deterioration)
• Pus around the gums or teeth
• Gums that are pulling away from your teething
• Frequent or constant bad smelling breath

On top of all of these symptoms, gum disease has been linked in a number of studies to other health problems. Some of these problems include:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Stroke
• Cancer
• Heart Disease
• Diabetes complications
• Babies with low birth weights from pregnant mothers
• Premature birth of babies from pregnant mothers

Having periodontal disease is a serious risk to your long term health. One of the very best things that you can do for your gum health is to get a regular tooth cleaning. During a tooth cleaning our team will work to clear away built up plaque and tartar that contributes to this disease.

At Ocotillo Lakes Dental Health, we also offer a cutting edge perio program that assists our patients with combating periodontal disease. Our perio program uses modern treatment technologies (such as OralDNA) that can comfortably and effectively fight back against the bacterial infections that cause this problem.

If you have gum disease, we want to help you receive gum disease treatment that will assist you in returning to optimal oral health. If you have questions about gum disease, gum disease treatment or anything else, please call us today!