Perio therapy is a way to fight off the side effects that come from getting periodontal disease, or more commonly called, gum disease. This helps to rid the body of the build up of plaque and tartar that can cause some serious side effects. Gum disease can harm far more than your gums, and can cause problems such as tooth loss, bad breath, and even contribute to heart disease.

The Stages of Gum Disease

There are three stages of gum disease. The first is gingivitis, and this is the stage most people start feeling a little tender along their gum line. There is also a little bleeding when most people with gingivitis brush their teeth. After this, comes periodontitis. This stage is when the tartar, also known as biofilm, builds up, causing the gums to begin receeding. This can cause pockets between the tooth and the gum to form and become inflamed. Most people notice more tender teeth, especially while chewing, along with bad breath that won’t go away, during this stage. Finally, there is advanced periodontitis. This stage is when the gums recede to the point of the roots being exposed, which can cause loose teeth, or the teeth can even begin to fall out.

How Perio Therapy Helps

During any stage of periodontal disease, you can choose to have perio therapy done to help bring your mouth to a healthier state. Perio therapy involves removing the build up of that biofilm both below and above the gumline. Most people call perio therapy root planing and deep scaling, but basically this is just an even deeper way to clean your teeth and reverse gum disease. Perio therapy can even go so far as to allow you to keep your teeth when they may have otherwise been at risk from your periodontal disease.

As soon as your perio therapy is completed, you will have a healthier mouth. Your bad breath and other symptoms will be a thing of the past, and you can smile again. In order to keep your mouth healthy after your treatment, you will need to practice good dental care, including brushing, flossing, and regularly getting a checkup from your dentist.

Call Dr. Levy today and schedule your Perio Therapy appointment!