Procedures

Periodontal Disease

The word periodontal means “around the tooth”.  Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that support the teeth.  Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva.  If plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar).  When plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone.  Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it!  Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages.

Not only is it the number one reason for tooth loss, research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk during pregnancy.  Researchers are determining if inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease affects these systemic diseases and conditions.  Smoking also increases the risk of periodontal disease.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease:

  • Bleeding gums – Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss.
  • Loose teeth – Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone).
  • New spacing between teeth – Caused by bone loss.
  • Persistent bad breath – Caused by bacteria in the mouth.
  • Pus around the teeth and gums – Sign that there is an infection present.
  • Receding gums – Loss of gum around a tooth.
  • Red and puffy gums – Gums should never be red or swollen.
  • Tenderness or Discomfort – Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.

Related Procedures

Causes of Periodontal Disease Types of Periodontal Disease Signs & Symptoms of Periodontal Disease Mouth - Body Connection Periodontal Disease and Diabetes Periodontal Disease, Heart Disease and Stroke Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy Periodontal Disease and Osteoporosis Periodontal Disease and Respiratory Disease What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease? Diagnosis Treatment Maintenance
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Dr. Glenn’s office feels like family. Dr. Glenn consistently demonstrates genuine compassion and amazing service to all of his patients (and in our community!)
Dr. Garcia is newer to this practice and is an incredible dentist! He recently did fabulous work on my teeth!
I highly recommend Glenn Family Dental! They’ll keep you smiling.
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Kimberly B.
Impressed!!!! I am a big scaredy cat about going to the dentist. I had been going to a big chain dental provider for a few years and all was well. Then at my 6 mo checkup was told I needed 5 crowns😳 I was scared and couldn’t financially do that .. Never went back to them— tried another big chain and they told me I needed 6 crowns!! So there I was waiting for all my teeth to fall out — no way could I do all those crowns!

My boss goes to Glenn Family Dental and I had met Dr Glenn on a few occasions. I decided if I did need all these crowns I wanted to at least hear it from a trustworthy source
I made an appointment to see Dr Garcia —- still scared
He took his time and explained I had a small cavity and one crown that was needed right now
What a financial relief— but still scaredy cat for even one crown
Well—- I am post visit and there was NO Pain!!
After the anesthesia shots(and those weren’t even bad!) there was zero pain!!!
I Highly Recommend Glenn Family Dental!!!
I’m a happy “ less” scaredy cat. 😸
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Susan H.
Dr. Glenn and Dr. Garcia are the best. The office staff and technicians are always happy to see you and very helpful. Best dentist experience you could ask for.
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Maria G.
My entire family has used Dr. Glenn for our dental needs for more than 20 years. He is personable, professional and incredibly knowledgeable! He has done everything from extractions to fillings and crowns. We have been incredibly pleased with every service we have received. His staff are all kind, welcoming and highly skilled. We wouldn't consider going anywhere else for our dental health care!
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