Periodontal disease is the major cause
of tooth loss in adults. It is caused by the accumulation of plaque
and tar. Plaque is a sticky, colorless deposit of bacteria that
collects on teeth. Any plaque which is not removed by regular
brushing and flossing, can harden into tartar (calculus). This
crusty deposit bonds firmly to the tooth and can only be removed
by the dentist. Tartar formation may also make it more difficult
for you to remove new plaque and bacteria.
Early and moderate periodontal
disease may exhibit few, if any, symptoms. Warning signs of advanced
periodontal disease may include red swollen or bleeding gums, persistent
bad breath, teeth that are loose or separating, etc. If left untreated,
the gum disease damages the bone and supporting tissues. The gums
attachment breaks down creating pockets and the bone level deteriorates.
The first step in treating periodontal disease consist of removing
the plaque and tartar deposits from the teeth. This procedure included
the scaling (scraping) of the teeth to remove the plaque and tartar
from the roots of the teeth as well as the curetting (removal) of
the diseased lining of the pockets of the gum tissue.
It is possible that your gums will be sensitive for a few days,
and that your teeth may be more sensitive to hot and cold than usual
for a few days or weeks.
Any of the over the counter medicaments, such as Advil or Aspirin,
can be taken to help the gum tissue. Time will help the sensitivity
of the teeth. There may also be some shrinkage of the gum tissue
causing root exposure. This is a normal occurrence and is a positive
step in reducing the pocket depth.
The goal of this treatment is to promote healing of the gum disease
and to allow you to maintain your teeth with proper home care
techniques.
The importance of maintaining good oral hygiene cannot be overstated.
We will monitor the progress of the healing process in future
visits.
1. Do not drink or
eat two hours after the surgery.
2. Avoid tart or spicy foods.
3. Drink fruit juices with a straw.
4. In some cases, a dressing will be placed over the area.
The dressing serves as a protection of the area of surgery
and to keep you comfortable. If small pieces break off, do
not be alarmed. If a large piece falls off, or if the dressing
is uncomfortable, call the doctor.
5. Some swelling may occur. This is to be expected. Place
cold ice pack over the area that has undergone surgery, and
rinse frequently and gently with warm water(one glass) with
one teaspoon of salt.
6. A slight amount of seepage may occur, giving your saliva
a red color. Do not be alarmed. If the seepage persists -
call the doctor.
7. For post operative comfort, take pills according to instructions
in the prescription given to you. Take antibiotics - only
if they are prescribed.
8. Brush those parts of your mouth on which surgery was not
performed. Brush only the biting surfaces of the teeth where
surgery was performed. Be sure to brush! When no dressing
is placed, brush and use a floss, but do not carry the floss
under the gum line.
9. Rinse mouth carefully after eating. Clean outside of dressing
with moistened cotton swabs or Q-tips.
10. No smoking for the next 24 hours.
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