How Much Does Periodontal Maintenance Cost?

Over three million Americans a year need to have periodontal disease treated. Gum disease is very preventable because it is simply the result of poor oral hygiene. This a perfect scenario to exercise that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Proactive, good oral hygiene habits is just a little precaution to prevent in this case damaging gum disease. If you find yourself in a reactive role of treating gum disease this periodontal maintenance can now become costly. Let’s identify how we get gum disease, the periodontal maintenance and the costs involved and the simple habits to exercise to prevent it from happening again.

How does Gum Disease Start

Each of us have millions of bacteria in our mouth every day. These bacteria, if not removed on a regular basis, will form a clear sticky substance called plaque. This plaque harbors damaging acids that will immediately attack the enamel of the teeth resulting in a cavity. If the plaque moves down the tooth and comes in contact with your gums the soft tissue will immediately develop an infection. The first stage is called gingivitis. Painless this disease will cause swelling, tender tissue and start to go from a healthy pink to a darker red color. The next stage is periodontal disease. Now the gums begin to bleed, you will begin to experience pain chewing, your teeth will become sensitive and the gums will begin to sag away from the teeth creating pockets. Teeth can become loose and you can begin to experience bone loss.

The Periodontal Maintenance Procedure

The procedure to abate and reverse the gum disease is simply a deeper cleaning of the teeth. With a teeth cleaning the plaque is removed from the crown of the tooth, that part that is visible. Now the plaque must be removed for the tooth below the surface. A local anesthetic will allow the dentist to scrape and scale the tooth below the surface. If the plaque or tartar is bad it might include a root planing procedure as well. With the introduction of an antibiotic the gums will begin healing right away and be noticeably healthier in several days. This periodontal maintenance can now cost between $1,000 and $3,000 depending on the amount of plaque involved, anesthesia and even a sedative to help with a prolonged appointment.

How do you Prevent Gum Disease from Returning?

The health industry strongly suggests that you brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. They also want you to include flossing once. If you exercise this simple at-home habit you can go along way to not having periodontal maintenance in your future. It is also wise to schedule dental examinations twice a year. This proactive measure will start with x-rays to identify health under the surface, a professional teeth cleaning and possibly some minor periodontal maintenance if the soft tissue looks like it needs some attention. Keep in mind that these elements; healthy teeth and healthy gums, are integral in you having a healthy smile.

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