Expert Periodontal Disease Treatment in Portland ME

Periodontal disease—commonly known as gum disease—is a serious oral health condition affecting the tissues and bones surrounding your teeth. At Portland Center for Dentistry, we specialize in periodontal disease treatment in Portland ME, offering expert care tailored specifically to your needs. Gum disease begins when plaque, a sticky blend of bacteria, food particles, and saliva, accumulates along the gum line. If not regularly removed through brushing and flossing, plaque eventually hardens into tartar (calculus), causing irritation and inflammation. Left untreated, periodontal disease progressively damages your gums and jawbone, potentially leading to tooth loss.

One alarming fact is that four out of five people who have periodontal disease don't even know it! Because the disease often develops silently and painlessly in the early stages, many individuals overlook initial symptoms until significant damage has already occurred. This is why regular dental check-ups are crucial—they can detect signs of periodontal issues before they become serious.

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Why Periodontal Disease in Portland ME Matters to Your Overall Health And Wellbeing

While periodontal disease poses obvious risks to your oral health, its impact extends far beyond just your teeth and gums. Research has linked periodontal disease to several severe systemic conditions, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, bacterial pneumonia, and complications during pregnancy. Scientists believe inflammation and harmful bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream, influencing other parts of your body. Moreover, habits like smoking significantly increase your susceptibility, making preventive care essential for your overall wellness.

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Recognizing the Early Signs of Periodontal Disease

Detecting gum disease early can dramatically increase your chances of successful treatment and help prevent further complications. Pay close attention to the following warning signs:

• Bleeding gums: Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed—even during vigorous brushing or flossing.
• Loose teeth: This indicates weakened gum tissue or bone loss.
• New gaps or spacing between teeth: Often a sign of underlying bone deterioration.
• Persistent bad breath: Chronic bad breath typically signals bacterial overgrowth.
• Pus around teeth and gums: An unmistakable sign of infection and inflammation.
• Receding gums: When gums pull back from teeth, exposing sensitive roots.
• Swollen, tender, or red gums: Healthy gums should be firm and pink—not irritated or inflamed.

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How Periodontal Disease Is Treated in Portland ME

Effective periodontal treatment requires a personalized approach, tailored specifically to your level of gum disease and oral health goals. At Portland Center for Dentistry, our periodontal specialists thoroughly evaluate your condition, then develop a treatment plan to halt disease progression and repair damage. Treatments often include:

• Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): A procedure designed to remove plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gum line, reducing inflammation and infection.
• Medication Therapy: Antibiotic or antimicrobial treatments may be prescribed to combat lingering infections.
• Surgical Procedures: In advanced cases, procedures such as flap surgery, bone grafts, or guided tissue regeneration might be needed to restore damaged gum tissues and bone structure.
• Routine Follow-Up: Regular periodontal maintenance visits ensure continued oral health and early detection of any recurring symptoms.

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Preventing Periodontal Disease: What You Can Do

Prevention is always the best approach when it comes to periodontal disease. The good news is that you can greatly reduce your risk by simply practicing consistent oral hygiene at home. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and maintain a healthy, balanced diet. Additionally, avoid tobacco products, as smoking significantly heightens your risk of periodontal complications. Most importantly, visit your dentist regularly—routine check-ups can catch and treat issues before they escalate.

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Your gums play a critical role in your overall health and well-being, so don’t ignore the signs of periodontal disease. Ready to regain control of your oral health and safeguard your smile for years to come? Reach out to our dedicated team at Portland Center for Dentistry today. We're committed to helping you achieve a healthier, brighter smile and improved quality of life!