How to protect your smile from periodontal disease and treat it when it develops

At Kelley Family Dental Center of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Drs. Jonathan and Gretchen Kelley educate patients on the importance of a healthy smile free from decay and disease. Periodontal disease is a type of infection that can develop and requires treatments, such as scaling and root planing. When you take good care of your smile, you can reduce your actual risk of this infection and improve your oral health overall.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, also referred to by some as gum disease, is an infection of one’s gum tissues which have the ability to spread and cause substantial issues within the smile. Periodontal disease is responsible for bone loss, gum loss, and tooth loss, causing irreversible damage that requires expensive dental services to address. This infection, if left untreated, can also contribute to several health risks, as the bacteria in the mouth enter the bloodstream and be carried to other parts of the body.

How do I reduce my risk of developing gum disease?

Gingivitis and periodontitis are both infections that can develop without proper home health care. If patients are prudent about treating their smile with great care by brushing, flossing, and visiting the dental office regularly, they can significantly reduce their risk of developing infected gum tissue. Drs. Jonathan and Gretchen Kelley of Kelley Family Dental Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico, can educate you on home care to improve oral health and reduce the risk of periodontitis and other complications in the smile.

How do I learn more about this condition?

Educating yourself on periodontal disease, tooth decay, and other conditions that can be avoided with proper care is the first step in the right direction! If you reside in or around the area of Albuquerque, NM, and want to speak with our team at Kelley Family Dental Center, we invite you to book an appointment at our office by talking to our front office staff at 505-898-4504. Our office is located at 4801 Montano Road NW, A3, and is open to new and current patients and families in the surrounding areas of West Albuquerque, North East Hides, and the North and South Valleys.