Periodontal Disease Maintenance

Advice from an Experienced San Diego Dentist

Did you know that you may have periodontal disease – perhaps even in the intermediate or advanced stages – and you may not even be aware of it? Periodontal disease, otherwise known as gum disease affects four out of five people. What many people don't realize is that if left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to a host of unwanted conditions such as decay, tooth loss, and an increased risk in heart disease. Since tooth loss is one of the biggest problems associated with gum disease, tooth loss can require you to have to wear dentures or get dental implants.

While it's critical that you brush your teeth two to three times a day and floss daily, only a San Diego dentist can give you the special attention you need to get to those hard to reach areas where plaque and tartar can hide from your toothbrush and buildup.

• Two important ways to prevent periodontal disease is to follow a good home care regimen of regular brushing and flossing, and second, make sure that you get an exam and cleaning every six months. During your exam, Dr. Roya Mirkhan will look for any signs or symptoms of periodontal disease. If she does detect gum disease, she can prescribe a comprehensive treatment plan that is customized to your individual needs.
• Once the steps in your treatment plan are completed, it is recommended that you have regular maintenance cleanings about four times per year. These follow up cleanings can ensure that your root pockets are kept clear of debris and that they are healthy. They can also remove the plaque and tartar that builds up below your gum line and cannot be cleaned on a daily basis.