Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a very common malady effecting almost all adults over age 40. In fact other than the common cold it is the world’s most common affliction. And the most common cause of tooth loss. All mouths are “infected” with bacteria, commonly called “plaque”. To control the growth of plaque is why we brush our teeth. But no matter how well we brush our teeth plaque will be left behind. This left behind plaque will harden to become calculus, which can’t be removed by brushing alone.
As periodontal disease continues untreated eventually the pockets reach the end or apex of the tooth. Up until this point the disease process has been painless. But at this point pain will be felt and the only alternative will be extraction. Teeth can become very mobile in the terminal stages of periodontal disease and can sometimes be pulled out with your fingers.
What you can do to help stop the progress of periodontal disease is to to improve oral hygiene and to make an effort to clean below the gum line. Vibrating your toothbrush bristles at a 45 degree angle under the gum line, and flossing under the gum line will help.
Periodontal disease is treated by scaling and root planing, that is, scraping calculus and debris from under the gum line. The is done by Dentists, Hygienists, and Periodontists (Dentists that specialize in treating gum disease) Other treatments include bone and tissue grafting, antibiotics injected under the gum line, and laser cleanings. Consult your Dentist to see what he or she recommends.
Contact Information
John A. Porter DMD
Phone: 480.816.3214
Address: 17100 E. Shea Blvd. # 450
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
(Across the street from Comfort Inn, next to VFW)
Email: FHdmd@gmx.com
Fax: 480.816.0857
Hours of Operation
Monday 9am-5pm
Tuesday 9am-5pm
Wednesday 9am-5pm
Thursday 9am-5pm
Friday – Saturday – Sunday,
By Appointment
Emergencies: 480.525.0341