It is important to maintain the health of your teeth and gums. Studies have pointed to links between periodontal disease and chronic health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease. As gum disease progresses, it also increases the risk of advanced problems such as tooth decay, gum recession, and missing teeth. That is why our periodontist, Dr. Tokarczyk, discusses the best ways to prevent the occurrence of and advancement of periodontal disease with patients.

Gingivitis VS Periodontitis

You are probably familiar with the term gingivitis, but you might not be as familiar with periodontitis. This is the technical name for gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Gingivitis begins with gum inflammation, and it is often an early sign of periodontal disease. Gingivitis occurs due to the build-up of plaque, which contains bacteria. This leads to red and inflamed gums, which bleed easily. Although it might cause irritation and pain, there is generally no irreversible damage to the bone or gum tissue and can be treated with a proper oral hygiene regimen of brushing and flossing.

Periodontitis often occurs when gingivitis remains untreated. At this stage, the bone and gum tissue begin to actually pull away and form pockets in which the bacteria and other debris reside. The bacteria and debris cause infections that ultimately bring about the destruction of bone and gum tissue, leading to tooth loss.

Prevent the Progression of Periodontal Disease

The best way to prevent gingivitis from progressing into periodontitis is to maintain a good oral hygiene routine that includes:

·         Brushing at least twice daily

·         Flossing daily

·         Seeing your periodontist regularly

·         Regular professional teeth cleaning

Schedule an Appointment to Learn More

If you experience the symptoms of gingivitis or a more advanced case of periodontal disease, then contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tokarczyk located in Springfield, MO. He also serves the Ozark and Marshfield, MO communities. He will discuss treatment options and further ways to prevent your disease from progressing.