Gum Disease
Gum disease can Wreak Havoc on Oral Health; Dr. McKone Offers Hope
Did you know that gum disease is the primary cause of adult tooth loss in the United States? It has also been connected to increased risk for strokes, heart disease, respiratory complications, low-weight births, and problems for diabetics. Many people don’t even know that they have gum disease because in the early stages, symptoms may not exist. As the condition progresses, symptoms include red, tender, or swollen gums, as well as bleeding when brushing teeth. If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with a hygienist at Dr. McKone’s dental office.
At your regular, six-month checkups, Dr. McKone will assess your gums to determine whether you have gum disease. If he finds a reason for concern, one of our hygienists will consult with you on brushing and flossing techniques to improve your situation. For patients who have gum disease, we may suggest scaling to remove hardened plaque root planing to smooth rough teeth roots, and/or antibiotic therapy to kill bacteria. Severe gum disease may require surgery for proper therapy.
Patients who contract gum disease will need to visit Dr. McKone’s dental office for a hygiene appointment about every three months following therapy. This will allow us to check your gum pocket depths and monitor your recovery.
Don’t let gum disease steal your strong, healthy smile. Call Dr. McKone in Plymouth now to schedule a checkup or consultation. Our dental office serves patients from Minneapolis, Wayzata, and Minnetonka.