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PERIODONTICS

At Porteous & Burke  we offer our patients state of the art soft tissue laser technology.

At Porteous and Burke Family Dentistry, we strive to prevent dental disease in a calm and compassionate environment. Our team of highly skilled dental hygienist and dentists will work with you to help you achieve your healthiest mouth.  A common disease that affects the mouth is periodontal disease, also know as gum disease.  

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What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease (gum disease), is the inflammation of tissues surrounding the teeth.   The early stage, known as gingivitis, is characterized by swollen, red gums that may be sore and easily bleed.  Luckily this stage of early gum disease is reversible.  With a thorough cleaning and focus on good brushing and flossing techniques, bleeding and sore gums that are filled with unhealthy bacteria can be eliminated!  

 

Periodontitis  is a more serious form of gum disease.  In the late stages of periodontitis, the gums can pull away from the tooth, bone can be lost, and the teeth may loosen or fall out.  Bad breath may also occur.  Periodontal disease is generally caused by unhealthy bacteria in the mouth infecting the tissue around the teeth, but there are certain risk factors such as diabetes or immunosuppression which put you at higher risk for more severe gum disease.

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Many patients are not aware that this unhealthy bacteria can actually be passed from person to person.  Infants below the age of 6 months are particularly vulnerable.  If they are exposed to this unhealthy bacteria, this bad bacteria becomes the dominant type of bacteria found in their mouth, putting them at greater risk for gum disease and dental decay.  

 

Our dentists and hygienists detect gum disease by examining gum tissue surrounding the teeth both visually and with a specialized measuring  probe.  Digital radiographs are also used to see if there is bone loss between teeth.

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If it is determined that you have gum disease, your dentist will discuss a tailored treatment plan depending on the stage of disease.  This may include more frequent cleanings, a deep cleaning, prescription mouthwash or soft tissue laser therapy and occasionally gum surgery.   At Porteous and Burke Family Dentistry we are happy to offer our patients state of the art technology by using soft tissue lasers to specifically target and remove disease causing bacteria and diseased tissue with minimal discomfort.   

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If you are concerned with the health of your gums, please call us today to schedule a consultation. 510-799-4746

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