What is Periodontal Therapy?

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At Valley Dental, we use the term periodontal therapy to describe the diagnosis and treatment of all types of gum disease.Periodontal disease in Onalaska WI are infections that affect the gums, periodontal ligaments, and alveolar bone. Knowing the stages of gum disease and the symptoms associated with this common oral health issue is critical to beating it and returning to good oral health.

What Are the Stages of Gum Disease?

The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, and it is completely reversible at this point. The other piece of good news about gingivitis is that it affects only the gums and no other structures. However, it can turn into mild, moderate, or advanced periodontitis if left untreated.

Mild Periodontitis causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, and you may begin losing some bone. In the middle stage, gum disease causes more bone loss due to bacterial erosion, and your gums become sore and tender. You risk losing some or all your teeth when gum disease reaches the advanced stages. Bleeding gums, pus on your gumline, and chronic bad breath are all associated with advanced periodontitis as well.

Symptoms of Periodontitis

Please schedule an appointment for an evaluation forgum disease in Onalaska WI right away if you notice any of the symptoms listed below.

  • Dark red or purple gums
  • Gums bleed easily
  • Loose teeth
  • Pain when chewing food
  • Pus on your gumline
  • Swollen and tender gums
  • Teeth have pulled away from your gums
  • Your two rows of teeth do not fit together like they used to

Advanced and untreated gum disease can cause infections in other parts of your body and contribute to the development of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Please reach out with additional questions or to request a consultation at your convenience.

Oral Hygiene Habits to Develop in 2024

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What are your goals for the new year? If you don’t have any yet, now is the time to consider making 2024 the year you improve your oral hygiene habits.

As your dentist in Onalaska, WI, the professionals at Valley Dental are here to help you take good care of your teeth. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you develop good oral hygiene habits. Below are a few suggestions we can offer for ways to improve your oral hygiene.

Time Your Toothbrushing

You’re supposed to brush your teeth for two minutes each time you brush. If you haven’t been doing that, now is the time to start. If you use an electric toothbrush, your toothbrush should time how long you take to brush your teeth. If your toothbrush is a manual toothbrush, then you’ll need to use an app or the timer on your phone to brush your teeth.

Visit the Dentist Twice Annually

Did you visit the dentist twice in 2023? If not, then 2024 should be the year you start seeing the dentist every six months. Seeing the dentist every six months is a good way to keep the tartar and plaque off your teeth. Your dentist can also help you avoid conditions like gum disease.

Address Your Dental Risks

Some conditions (like diabetes) and lifestyle choices (like smoking) can put your teeth at risk. Knowing your risks and what you can do to protect yourself is important. Next time you’re at the dentist’s office, ask the dentist if you’re at risk for any dental conditions and, if so, what you can do to take care of your teeth. Start implementing those changes in 2024 to reduce your risk of developing a dental condition.

Do you need a dental appointment in Onalaska, WI? If so, call Valley Dental today to get your appointment on the schedule.