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Periodontics services offered in Indianapolis, IN
Periodontics focuses on the health of your gums, which are a critical part of your overall well-being. At Affordable Dental East in Indianapolis, Indiana, Ben Mohrman, DDS, provides preventive care and treatment for periodontal (gum) disease. He helps you restore gum health and reduce inflammation to protect the integrity of your teeth. Call the office or use the online tool to book an appointment today, especially if you have signs of gum disease.
What is periodontics?
Periodontics focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease. Periodontal disease describes infection and inflammation in your gums.
If plaque and tartar accumulate on your teeth along the gumline, the bacteria can cause your gums to become inflamed. Over time, your gums pull away from your teeth. Left untreated, bacteria continue to collect in these pockets, and the infection worsens.
What are the signs that I have periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease begins with gingivitis: mild inflammation of your gum tissue. Suspect gingivitis if your gums look puffy and bleed when you brush or floss.
Signs of more advanced gum disease include:
- Receding gums
- Pockets between your teeth and gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Pain when chewing
- Loose or sensitive teeth
Untreated periodontal disease can spread to the jawbone and cause tooth loss. When Dr. Mohrman detects gum disease early and provides treatment, you have a better chance of saving your teeth and avoiding the hassle and expense of extensive dental work.
What treatments are involved in periodontics?
Gum treatments remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and any pockets that have formed between your gums and teeth.
A routine checkup provides this cleaning when you have healthy gums. When you have more advanced gum problems, you need a more extensive cleaning known as scaling and root planing.
Dr. Mohrman places you under a local anesthetic before your hygienist scrapes away tartar and plaque from below and above the gumline. They also smooth out rough spots on the tooth roots.
Inflammation subsides when the bacteria are removed. With time, your gums reattach to your teeth and any pockets seal up.
What is preventive periodontics?
You can prevent gum disease by maintaining good oral hygiene habits. Brush two times daily, floss at least once a day, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash. Schedule routine dental cleanings and exams every six months too.
Other habits that help keep your gums healthy include avoiding sugary foods and drinks to discourage plaque from developing.
If you notice the early signs of gum disease, see the team at Affordable Dental East right away. An extra routine cleaning and doubling down on your at-home hygiene routine may be enough to calm this early inflammation and prevent it from developing into periodontal disease.
If you’re concerned about periodontal disease, call Affordable Dental East today to set up an examination and cleaning. Alternatively, use this website to book an appointment online.