Aging makes individuals susceptible to a range of conditions that may affect teeth and gum health. This is why the older population has a higher probability of experiencing cavities, gum disease and similar conditions. Although sticking to proper oral hygiene will reduce your risk greatly, there are still cases in which individuals with proper oral health habits still have dental health issues. When this happens, the only option is to treat it, since leaving these issues unattended may prove costly later on.
According to Dr. Kelley Mingus, a prominent Bend, Oregon, dentist, anyone, both young and old, suffering from periodontal disease can rest assured that there are very effective treatments available to address this condition. Seeking treatment as soon as possible can sometimes be the difference between losing a tooth or teeth and simply reversing the damage that has occurred with no long-lasting implications.
Nonsurgical treatments such as root planing and scaling may help in minor cases, especially when the gum disease is caught early. This usually involves a thorough deep cleaning of the patient’s mouth. After the deep cleaning, patients are usually reevaluated from time to time to determine whether further treatments is needed.
Mingus says if the periodontitis leads to tooth loss or imminent tooth extraction, patients can look at dental implants as a long-lasting tooth-replacement option. According to Mingus, most patients appreciate the natural feel, convenience and appearance of dental implants, as well as the way implants stabilize the bone structure. Mingus provides this service at his Healthy Bend dental clinic in Bend, Oregon.
Whether you only need deep cleaning or would need dental implants to replace your missing teeth due to gum disease or any other condition, it’s important to see a dentist right away to prevent the situation from degenerating further, Mingus says.
