Keeping your teeth healthy for life means brushing, flossing, and healthy eating. You've probably been practicing these habits to prevent cavities, but oral hygiene is also crucial for keeping periodontal disease at bay.

Caused by bacteria that damage the gum tissue and can result in bone and teeth loss, periodontal disease can impair your oral and total body health, making prevention and intervention crucial.

Dr. John Kelly of Bethesda Row Dental in Bethesda can help you detect the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease, and provide the necessary treatment.

What are the signs of periodontal disease?

• Red or swollen gums
• Persistent bad breathe
• Receding gums and exposed tooth roots
• Loose teeth
• Gums which bleed while brushing, eating, or without cause
• Tooth sensitivity, especially when consuming hot or cold foods or drinks
• Periodontal abscesses (painful pockets of pus in the gum tissue)

What can cause periodontal disease?

Poor oral hygiene, smoking, health conditions such as diabetes, medications which cause dry mouth, and genetics can all be factors in developing periodontal disease. Make sure to tell your family dentist at our Bethesda office if you have any preexisting health conditions or a family history of oral disease.

How can I treat my periodontal disease?

Your family dentist at our Bethesda office will examine your mouth thoroughly and perform a deep cleaning, scraping away plaque and tartar and applying antibiotic or antimicrobial substances if necessary to promote faster healing. Severe cases of periodontal disease may require surgery to repair deep abscesses.

How can I help prevent periodontal disease?

To reduce your risk of periodontal disease, make sure to brush frequently and thoroughly, floss daily, avoid smoking, and visit your family dentist at our Bethesda office regularly for professional cleanings and examinations.

Take great care of your teeth with the help of Bethesda Row Dental. Call us today at 301-657-3220!