Your home for proactive, minimally invasive (no cutting!) gum care and treatment
At Integrated Family Dentistry, we appreciate that the “best treatment” is no treatment at all. Dr. Mercedes Del Valle and our team in Eugene, Oregon, strive to stay ahead of problems, identifying them early before they cause extensive damage and lead to the need for more aggressive interventions.
Notably, many oral conditions can take a toll on the body. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis)is associated with tooth loss as well as systemic disease. The bacteria and inflammation of periodontitis have been linked to everything from respiratory illness to heart disease and stroke.
Your dental “home” for proactive care
Traditionally, dental care has been reactive by addressing problems after they happen. Dr. Del Valle’s practice is designed to be a “dental home” for generations of families. We anticipate and respect each patient’s unique preferences and needs. We also value consistency and regular monitoring of evolving oral health and overall health conditions. During regular check-ups, Dr. Del Valle identifies and addresses risks that could make you prone to developing gingival inflammation (gingivitis) or early gum disease.
The CDC reports that one out of every two Americans aged 30-plus have some form of periodontal or gum disease. Since this condition develops and worsens over time, there are opportunities for us to “catch it.” In doing so, we can halt its progression and prevent further damage. If caught early enough, the disease doesn’t have to leave any lasting impacts on your teeth and oral health.
Characterized by red and swollen gums and bleeding and tenderness, especially when you floss or brush, gingivitis is commonly caused by bacterial plaque that feeds off lingering starches and sugars in our food. If you don’t remove this damaging film, it hardens under the gumline and becomes tartar. When plaque/tartar remains on the teeth, the soft tissues become increasingly inflamed. Untreated gingivitis can lead to destructive periodontitis – the stage of disease associated with tooth loss. Whenever possible, we want to intervene with minimally invasive approaches. These include:
- Professional dental cleanings by our dental hygienists
- A “deep cleaning” via scaling and root planing
- Custom-fit Perio Protect Method® trays to deliver bacteria-fighting medicine deeply to the tissues that need it most
- Laser-assisted (no-cutting) gum therapies and tissue regeneration
Like everything else at your home for trusted dental care in Eugene, OR, periodontal treatment is tailored to your unique needs. If you are due for your check-up or are concerned about a change involving your smile, do not hesitate to call the Integrated Family Dentistry team today at (541) 204-3939.
