About Periodontal Disease

San Diego Dentist

What exactly is periodontal disease?  From Latin derivation, periodontal literally means "around the tooth."  Disease occurs when decay and problems arise within your gums and the bones below your teeth.  This generally occurs due to the neglect and lack of maintenance of your dental health over a prolonged period of time.  Plaque - a film of debris, bacteria and saliva that forms on your teeth - can turn into tartar without proper daily care and removal.  When plaque and tartar are not removed, they begin to impact the health of your gums and bone, exhibiting their destructive activity through red, swollen and bleeding gums.  You should make no delay in contacting a San Diego cosmetic dentist should you be experiencing the signs of periodontal disease.

Sadly, some 80% of people have periodontal disease and do not even realize it because the condition is usually painless when in its early stages.  Though it is the primary reason for tooth loss, most do not know that periodontal disease may be linked to more serious medical conditions such as diabetes, bacterial pneumonia, stroke, heart disease and other systemic conditions.  It can be positively impacted by a good diet and diligent oral hygiene while negatively affected by poor dental care and smoking.  If you notice any of these telltale signs, you should see a dentist immediately - failure to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment can have severe repercussions:

• Loose teeth or new spacing between teeth
• Red and puffy gums
• Bleeding or pus around the gums
• Persistent bad breath and halitosis
• Receding gum line
• Tenderness and pain around the gums

Cosmetic Dentist in San Diego

Recognized among the top dentists in the country by both her peers and prestigious publications, Dr. Roya Mirkhan and members of her practice specialize in cosmetic, periodontal and dental implant care.  We are concerned with not only your health but also in helping you improve your self-confidence.  Our team cares deeply about you and is fully committed to providing outstanding dental care and establishing a long-term relationship with our patients.

Four out of five people suffer from periodontal disease yet do not understand its grievous consequences.  Contact a San Diego Dentist today.