Dentist - Minneapolis, MN - Dr. Richard Sorenson and Dr. Andrea Newton - Family Dental Clinic

Periodontal diseases (gum diseases) are bacterial infections that result in the deterioration of the supporting structures (gums, bone, ligaments) of the teeth. If left untreated, the disease will destroy the supporting tissues and is a major cause of tooth loss. There are many forms of periodontal disease including: gingivitis, aggressive periodontitis and chronic periodontitis. Some periodontal diseases are brought on by systemic conditions such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS…and smoking is also a large risk factor associated with periodontal diseases.

Current research is linking periodontal diseases to an increased risk of:

Heart Disease
Stroke
Pre-term or Low Birth Weight Babies

Treatment of periodontal disease begins with a procedure called scaling and root planing. This procedure is commonly referred to as a “deep cleaning.” The teeth are anesthetized and instruments are used to clean the root surfaces of the teeth and also remove the bacteria that has infiltrated into the gums. Scaling and root planing appointments require more time than a regular dental cleaning and are usually scheduled in two or four visits.

Once the scaling and root planing procedure has been completed, perio maintenance appointments will be scheduled. At that time, a re-evaluation will be made and the use of antibiotics within the periodontal pocket may be used. Due to the periodontal disease, it is very important to maintain good oral hygiene and keep the perio maintenance appointments. Periodontal disease cannot be cured, but with proper care at home and in the dental office, it can be maintained. Our goal is to halt the progression of the disease and to create a health environment for the teeth, bones and gums.

At Family Dental Clinic, we examine our patients’ periodontal status at each dental hygiene appointment. Sometimes, periodontal treatment is necessary in order to stabilize the condition and most often can be performed in our office. There are also times, however, when we might feel it necessary to refer to a Periodontist. Periodontists are dental specialists that are trained to treat advanced periodontal cases.

The good news is that most periodontal diseases are preventable with proper home care and routine dental visits. Please contact our office for a periodontal evaluation.