Periodontics in Cottonwood, AZ

The word periodontal means “around the tooth”.  Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that support the teeth.  Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva.  If plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar).  When plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone.  Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it!  Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages.

Not only is it the number one reason for tooth loss, research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk during pregnancy.  Researchers are determining if inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease affects these systemic diseases and conditions.  Smoking also increases the risk of periodontal disease.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease:

  • Bleeding gums – Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss.
  • Loose teeth – Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone).
  • New spacing between teeth – Caused by bone loss.
  • Persistent bad breath – Caused by bacteria in the mouth.
  • Pus around the teeth and gums – Sign that there is an infection present.
  • Receding gums – Loss of gum around a tooth.
  • Red and puffy gums – Gums should never be red or swollen.
  • Tenderness or Discomfort – Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.

If you live in the Verde Valley, near Cottonwood, AZ (Jerome, Clarkdale, Sedona, Camp Verde, Prescott, Prescott Valley or Chino Valley), you will find our dental office to be your best solution for periodontal treatment. You will experience innovative, advanced and compassionate therapy in a caring environment.

Our patients appreciate our dedication to educating and helping them make knowledgeable decisions about their treatment. We believe in developing a strong partnership with each of our patients. In addition to treating and healing your gum disease with our high-tech equipment, we promise to help you will learn about the importance of taking care of your teeth, working together closely with you to obtain optimum dental health.

You will appreciate our commitment to excellence, as well as the state-of-the-art care you will receive from our team.

What is a Periodontal (Gum) Disease?

Periodontal disease, sometimes referred to as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory disease that impacts the gums and bone that supports the teeth. When left untreated, periodontal disease typically results in significant tooth loss. Periodontal disease can have a range of symptoms including no symptoms. Only a thorough dental exam including dental x-rays and a periodontal charting or measuring of the gum tissue surrounding your teeth can diagnose periodontal disease.

In cooperation, your dentist and dental hygienist will carefully screen and evaluation your gums and supporting bone health. You know a beautiful smile must be built on a solid foundation. Like you, we believe in starting with the foundation when we are creating a healthy and happy smile.

We use advanced techniques to diagnose, treat and manage periodontal disease and related conditions as part of maintaining good overall oral health. There are many stages of gum disease and we can help treat you, whatever stage you might be experiencing. If needed, the team at Creekview Family Dental will provide a comprehensive dental periodontal plan.

The Truth About Periodontal (Gum) Disease

One out of every two American adults aged 30 and over has periodontal disease, according to recent findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). A study titled Prevalence of Periodontitis in Adults in the United States: 2009 and 2010 estimates that 47.2 percent, or 64.7 million American adults, have mild, moderate or severe periodontitis, the more advanced form of periodontal disease. In adults 65 and older, prevalence rates increase to 70.1 percent.

This study is published in the Journal of Dental Research, the official publication of the International and American Associations for Dental Research.  Because there is such a high prevalence of periodontal disease in the U.S. population, the American Academy of Periodontology encourages yearly comprehensive periodontal evaluations to assess for disease. (Source: American Academy of Periodontology Perio.org)

Uncontrolled gum disease has been linked to many systemic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and pre-term labor in expectant mothers.  Having your periodontal health assesses and under control has far reaching benefits.  The mouth is part of the body and your oral health being in top shape can and a will have overall health benefits.

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