For years, dentists have tried to prevent patients from cavities,
gum disease, infections of the teeth and infections of the surrounding tissues
of the teeth. Did you know that by preventing some of these issues, dentists are
also helping prevent patients from other health issues such as elevated blood
sugar levels in diabetic patients, increased blood
pressure or more pain in arthritic patients? When there is inflammation from gum(periodontal) disease, or inflammation from an infected tooth, this
increases inflammation in other parts of the body. This is because your immune
system is working hard to protect the body from infection. The immune system
does this by sending healing cells, with the help of blood, to an area to
protect it from an infection but the side-effect to this, is swelling and
inflammation. This means higher blood sugar levels in the diabetic patient, an
increase in blood pressure and more inflammation in joints for the arthritic
patient. So what can people do about it? People can start with good
home care for their teeth and gums. This means brushing a minimum of
twice a day for 2 minutes each time you brush, making sure to remove bacteria at
the gum line and flossing once a day to remove bacteria from between the teeth.
Brushing and flossing alone will not do the trick. People should also see a
dentist regularly to have a routine dental cleaning with a licensed dental
hygienist (LDH). An LDH is trained to remove bacteria from below the gum
line where your tooth brush cannot reach, thus, helping to prevent infection or
even detecting an infection early.
At Metropolitan Periodontists, P.A. we specialize
in the treatment of gum disease. We use advanced technology to treat patients
with active infection or chronic inflammation in their gum tissue. Our
hygienist is the only hygienist in the State of Minnesota to use a camera below
the gum line. She can see the hardened bacteria on the roots of the teeth
and she is able to remove it with confidence for our patients. We also use a
laser to treat gum disease which is more comfortable for patients than the
traditional surgery done to treat gum disease. If you or someone you know
has been told that you have gum disease, schedule an appointment with us.
We would be happy to help you become a healthier you.
