Once bone loss has started, it is an uphill battle to prevent further bone loss. The top layer of bone is called cortical bone, and it is the strongest and most dense, while the inner layer of bone is called cancellous bone, and it is soft. If a person has lost the cortical bone around their teeth, they can experience further bone loss very quickly. In order to avoid further bone loss, a person that has previously needed Scaling and Root Planing needs to have continued Periodontal Maintenance, to ensure that their teeth remain smooth and there is no cause for further bone loss.
The need for Scaling and Root Planing and Periodontal Maintenance is evidence that the previous attempts to keep teeth clean have been unsuccessful, so the first step to successfully stopping the progression of bone loss is an acknowledgement by the patient that whatever they were doing has not worked, and there must be a plan to stop the growth of calculus under the gums. This may mean flossing more than once per day, and ensuring that the floss reaches under the gums. Your dentist or hygienist will be able to show you how to do that, so that you can keep your teeth, gums, and surrounding bone healthy for years to come.
FAQ’S
Periodontal disease is a dental disease that come from gums and dental bones infections and inflammations. The earliest stage is most commonly known as ‘gingivitis’.
Bacteria build-up in the mouth that has infected the tissues surrounding the tooth can lead to periodontal disease.
Some telltale signs that will tell it’s time for a periodontal care are:
- Painful chewing
- Swollen gums
- Sensitive teeth
- Persistent bad breath or taste in the mouth
It may be more difficult to cure it once it reaches an advanced stage, but with proper dental care, it can be effectively managed.
A periodontal dentist or a periodontist, is a professional dentist that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease.