Periodontal Therapy Revitalizes Oral Health & Prevents Systemic Disease

Periodontal disease (a.k.a. gum disease) not only creates oral issues like bleeding and gum recession, but can also put you at risk for other health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, pregnancy complications, strokes, and other severe complications. Many patients don’t even know they suffer from periodontal disease until it’s in an advanced stage. We work with patients during routine cleanings and exams to detect early signs of periodontal issues. 

Periodontal disease occurs when food by-products left in the mouth change into bacteria that collect under gum tissue eroding supportive bone. This becomes a vicious, though oftentimes painless, cycle. As supporting bone erodes, pockets in gum tissue deepen creating spaces for the bacteria to descend to. Once the pockets form, it is physically impossible for toothbrush bristles or floss to reach the bacteria allowing for the process to continue. Soon, tartar (calculus) forms which can result in bone loss. Bleeding gums, breath issues, and mobile teeth are indicators of significant periodontal disease. There are steps patients can take to help avoid periodontal disease including maintaining a good diet, strong oral hygiene routine, and having regular exams and cleanings. 

Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal therapy (scaling and root planing) is a cleaning that targets and treats periodontal pathogens and disease. We recommend periodontal therapy for patients with active periodontal disease (bleeding gums and deeper gum pockets). The goal of periodontal therapy is to remove plaque biofilm from the teeth and under the gums to stabilize a patient’s periodontal condition, and eliminate inflammation in the mouth.

Additionally, our hygiene team has completed advanced curriculum presented through the Kois Center, which is an evidence-based dental teaching center located in Seattle, WA. Kois Center principles focus on whole-body wellness, and the elimination of inflammation to reduce the risk of systemic health issues. Periodontal pathogens are linked to at least 57 systemic diseases and conditions. When harmful bacteria enter the bloodstream from infected gums, they trigger widespread immune responses that can negatively impact nearly every major organ and physiological system in the body. It is imperative to rid the mouth of inflammation to reduce the risk of more severe systemic complications.