Periodontal Care in Iowa City

Gums are foundational to your oral health and your physical well-being. They protect teeth and keep them secure in their sockets. Knowing how to prevent and reverse gum disease is crucial to the longevity of your smile. 

Advanced Dentistry of Iowa City is equipped to address your periodontal care with a skilled team of dental professionals. Dr. Molly Moreland treats teeth and gums with state-of-the-art preventive and restorative techniques, so your smile radiates wellness and beauty.

Signs of Gum Disease

There are a few signs that indicate your gums are not healthy, such as bleeding while brushing or flossing, redness, tenderness, and swelling. These are not normal conditions, and they need to be addressed with a rigorous daily hygiene routine and professional dental attention. 

Gum Disease: Gingivitis and Periodontitis

There are millions of bacteria in the mouth and they collect into a sticky substance called plaque. Plaque can calcify into tartar, which stubbornly clings to teeth. Plaque and Tartar grow under the gum line and infect the gums. 

Brushing teeth twice a day and flossing to remove bacteria from the hard to reach nooks and crannies between teeth is an effective way to stop the progression of plaque and tartar.   

Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease that is very common. With a professional cleaning by a dental hygienist and a commitment to a disciplined daily oral health routine, gingivitis can be reversed and prevented. 

When plaque and tartar are left untreated and continue to build up under the gum line it can result in a more advanced form of gum disease called periodontitis. Periodontitis is a serious infection of the gums, causing them to recede and detach from teeth. Deep pockets in the gums may also form creating abscesses and other health issues.  If periodontitis is not treated, teeth may become loose and even fall out. 

Periodontitis requires the professional help of a skilled dental hygienist. A deep cleaning includes a procedure known as tooth scaling and root planing. Hygienists use special tools to remove stubborn tartar and plaque from teeth and their roots. Then root planing meticulously smooths the tooth and its root, so the gums can grow back and reattach to the tooth

Advanced Dentistry of Iowa City for Quality Periodontal Care. 

Dr. Molly Moreland and her team of trusted dental professionals take your periodontal health very seriously. They make certain that your teeth and gums are well cared for and giving you a beautiful smile. Contact Advanced Dentistry of Iowa City for outstanding dental care. 

Related Procedures