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It's not just bad breath anymore ...

Periodontal disease is a serious health problem, as a dental infection with potential access to a person's bloodstream. The primary cause is a bacterial (germ) growth found in deeper than normal "pockets" where they can spread into the tooth's supporting bone and beyond. A pocket that is 5mm in depth or more is considered high risk. Your medical status, medications and dental factors such as crowded teeth and failing dental work can contribute to risk. Tooth loss occurs when the gum infection causes destruction of the jaw bone that surrounds the root of the tooth.

Periodontal needs are based on gum "pocket" depth and appearance, supporting bone loss and evidence of inflammation, bleeding gums, mouth odor, among others. Of course, periodic X-rays are an important record of bone loss and are used to help determine and document risk level. At each check up/exam visit, we will determine your risk of infectious periodontal diseases and tailor your periodontal treatment and maintenance services accordingly. Changes in risk level may impact the fee aspects of your care, and the frequency of maintenance appointments.

You will be an active part of this process because of the value we place on informed choices and health education. Of course, your self/home care habits are as essential as anything we do as dental professionals. We hope to empower you to understand your role and the limits of professional care alone. We hope our partnership will be successful in reducing your risk of periodontal disease and the dental and medical implications of this infection.

We can evaluate your periodontal risk level (Limited, Moderate, or Critical) during your next check up/exam visit.

Dentistry for the Family in Chapel Hill

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