Gum Disease, Why it affects more than just your mouth

At Arden Park Dental Care of Sacramento, California, Dr. Shahnaz L. Formoli and her team of professionals believe in providing patients with the best care possible–and ensuring they offer a wide range of services to reduce the need for referrals to other professionals in the area. In addition to providing general, restorative, and even aesthetic dentistry, she also offers treatments for soft tissue management with non-surgical gum therapy for those diagnosed with periodontal disease.

What exactly is soft tissue management?

Soft tissue management refers to treating and maintaining the gum tissues, also known as periodontal tissues, after an infection has been diagnosed. The gums play a critical role in supporting and protecting the teeth, but they might become damaged or infected due to poor oral hygiene, genetics, certain medical conditions, or other factors that may contribute. When this condition is left untreated, gum disease or periodontal disease can cause serious and irreversible complications such as tooth loss and even systemic issues. Getting an early diagnosis and talking to an experienced dentist, such as Dr. Shahnaz L. Formoli of Arden Park Dental Care in Sacramento, California, is the best way to ensure a healthy smile after problems arise.

What does gum disease look like?

The stages of periodontal disease

Healthy

  • Pink in color
  • Gum line hugs teeth tightly
  • No Bleeding

Gingivitis

  • Gums bleed
  • Inflamed, red gum tissue
  • Bad breath and bad taste

Early Periodontitis

  • Gums may pull away from the teeth
  • Inflamed, red gum tissue
  • Bad breath and bad taste
  • Bone loss around teeth
  • Pocket of bacterial infection of 4mm between teeth and gums

Moderate Periodontitis

  • Periodontal abscesses
  • Gums recede and teeth look longer
  • Loose or separating teeth
  • Bad breath and bad taste
  • Pockets of bacterial infection from 4 to 6mm deep

Advanced Periodontitis

  • Mobile or loose teeth
  • Persistent bad breath and bad taste
  • Exposed roots and sensitivity to hot and cold
  • Loss of adjacent supporting bone
  • Pockets of bacterial infection in 6mm deep

“Research indicates that oral hygiene plays a significant role in overall health, impacting more than just your mouth.”

Gum Disease has been linked to serious chronic conditions such as:*

  • Dementia
  • Alzheimer’s
  • Stroke
  • Oral, head and neck cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Respiratory infections
  • Diabetes
  • Pancreatic and liver Cancer
  • Pregnancy complications
  • Osteopenia
  • Arthritis

What can I expect from periodontal maintenance services?

First, patients will get a thorough evaluation performed to determine the severity of the infection of the smile. The earliest infection is gingivitis; at this stage, the condition can be treated and reversed. However, if patients do not get periodontal disease treatment for this gum infection, it can worsen and result in periodontitis, a condition that cannot be cured and can only be maintained. Lack of treatment can result in the development of serious loss, including the loss of bone, gum tissue, and even permanent adult teeth.

Will I need gum surgery?

There are several approaches to treating patients diagnosed with any stage of periodontal disease. Dr. Shahnaz L. Formoli is pleased to offer a selection of treatment options for our patients, including gum infection treatments that do not require surgical intervention. Talking to our team at Arden Park Dental Care is the first step in the journey toward learning more about your condition and what can be done to resolve it.

How do I learn more about soft tissue management services at Arden Park Dental Care?

If you are a resident of Sacramento, CA, and want to work with Dr. Shahnaz L. Formoli and her team to discuss the treatment of periodontal disease and other dental issues, call the office today at (916) 280-0988 to request a visit to the practice, located at 4360 Arden Way, Suite #3.

Facts about gum disease
Gum disease can affect individuals of all ages, with older adults being more prone due to natural aging but younger people can also develop it. Regular dental checkups and maintaining good oral hygiene practices are crucial in preventing and treating gum disease.

Facts about gum disease. Periodontal disease can affect a person at any age. Older adults are indeed more prone to gum disease due to natural aging, but younger people can also develop the condition. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits like brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist to prevent periodontal disease is essential. Genetic factors can play a role when dealing with oral diseases. If your parents or close relatives have a history of gum disease, you are more likely to develop the condition. However, genetics alone do not determine if a person will develop gum disease. You can reduce your risk for gum disease by practicing good oral hygiene habits and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Periodontitis has been linked to other serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Studies suggest that the bacteria and inflammation associated with periodontitis can contribute to these conditions when they spread throughout the body and trigger a systemic inflammatory response. Maintaining good oral hygiene and seeking treatment for periodontitis is vital, not just for oral health, but for overall health as well.

While gum disease itself isn’t contagious, the bacteria that cause it can spread through saliva, making it possible for gum disease to be transmitted from one person to another. Kissing and sharing utensils or toothbrushes with someone who has gum disease can spread bacteria from their mouth to yours. Dairy products can help prevent periodontal disease as lactic acid in dairy. Products can eliminate bacteria that cause toothache and other periodontal problems. Calcium helps to strengthen teeth and bones while vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and supports immune function, which can help protect against gum disease, get dental checkups and regular to prevent gum disease in its early stages.


Shahnaz L. Formoli, DDS

Dr. Shahnaz L. Formoli performed her post-graduate studies at the University of Loma Linda and the University of the Pacific and trained with some of the top Experts with renowned expertise in Cosmetic Anti-Aging dentistry, Implant Dentistry, Soft tissue management, Laser dentistry, and Invisalign, she is a dedicated member of various local and international dental associations.

Dr. Formoli is committed to offering the community the highest quality, Anti-aging Aesthetic, corrective dentistry. In addition to her expertise, she offers Snap-On Smile—a swift, temporary solution as patients prepare for permanent restorative treatments. Her goal is to create an unparalleled experience in dental care, utilizing advanced modern technologies in an old-fashioned warm, compassionate, and friendly environment.