All posts in Gum Disease
Q:My last dentist told me my gum disease can lead to other health problems. Is this true? A:Yes, chronic gum disease has been linked to strokes and heart disease. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over 20 years. www.michaelmaksimdds.com View Larger Map
Q:Are dental lasers used for gum treatment? A:Dental lasers can be used to kill bacteria at regular dental cleanings to help prevent gum disease or prevent further bone loss. Lasers can also be used in gum surgery on patients with gum disease. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in . . . Read more
Q:I lost several teeth to gum disease. What can I do now? A:When one or several teeth are missing due to periodontal disease, dental implants are an effective option. If the bone is strong enough to provide a suitable anchor for the prosthetic tooth, the implant can be placed. However, . . . Read more
Q:What is severe periodontal disease? A:Advanced periodontal disease – Gum pockets in excess of 6-7 mm are usually accompanied by bone loss and gum recession. Scaling and root planning will always be performed as the initial nonsurgical treatment. In addition to nonsurgical treatments, the periodontist may recommend surgical treatment to . . . Read more
Q:What is moderate gum disease mean? What does moderate gum disease mean? A:Moderate periodontal disease – If the gum pockets reach 4-6mm in length a more extensive scaling and root planning cleaning might be required. This cleaning is usually performed under local anesthetic. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry . . . Read more
Q:What is gingivitis? A:Gingivitis/mild periodontal disease – When the gum pockets exceed 4mm in depth, the periodontist or hygienist may perform scaling and root planing to remove debris from the pockets and allow them to heal. Education and advice will be provided on an effective cleaning regime thereafter. Dr. . . . Read more
Q:Who should treat severe gum disease? A:Before initiating any dental treatment, a periodontist should extensively examine the gums, jawbone and general condition of the teeth. When gingivitis or periodontal disease is officially diagnosed, the periodontist has a number of surgical and non surgical options available to treat the underlying infection, . . . Read more
Q:Is it true gum disease can harm more than just teeth? A:Gum disease can possibly cause these health conditions – Heart disease, diabetes, osteopenia and osteoporosis are all highly correlated with periodontitis and periodontal infections. The bacteria infection can spread through the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body. . . . Read more
Q:My wife says I have bad breath. Does that mean I have an infection? A:Bad breath – Continued halitosis (bad breath) which persists even when a rigorous oral hygiene program is in place, can be indicative of periodontitis, gingivitis or the beginnings of an infection in the gum tissues. . . . Read more
Q:How would I know if I need to see a dentist about gum disease? A:Unexplained bleeding while consuming food or during the course of daily cleaning is one of the most common signs of periodontal infection. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over . . . Read more