Periodontal Disease
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal treatment is necessary when various conditions affect the health of your gums and the regions of your jaw bone that hold your teeth in place. Retaining your teeth is directly dependent on proper periodontal care and maintenance. Healthy gums enhance the appearance of your teeth, like a frame around a beautiful painting. When your gums become unhealthy, they can either recede or become swollen and red. In later stages, the supporting bone is destroyed and your teeth will shift, loosen, or fall out. These changes not only affect your ability to chew and speak. They also spoil your smile.
Periodontal diseases are ongoing infections of the gums that gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. Periodontal disease affects one or more of the periodontal tissues: alveolar bone, periodontal ligament, cementum, or gingiva. While there are many diseases which affect the tooth-supporting structures, plaque-induced inflammatory lesions make up the majority of periodontal issues, and are divided into two categories: gingivitis and periodontitis. While gingivitis, the less serious of the diseases, may never progress into periodontitis, it always precedes periodontitis.
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Periodontal disease can ruin your gums and smile. Contact us today to schedule an exam and professional teeth cleaning!
Gingivitis
Dental plaque is the primary cause of gingivitis in genetically-susceptible individuals. Plaque is a sticky colorless film, composed primarily of food particles and various types of bacteria, which adhere to your teeth at and below the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth, even minutes after cleaning. Bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons that irritate the gums. Gums may become inflamed, red, swollen, and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth causing pockets (spaces) to form. If daily brushing and flossing is neglected, plaque can also harden into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar). This can occur both above and below the gum line.
Periodontitis
If gingivitis progresses into periodontitis, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorates. The progressive loss of this bone, the alveolar, can lead to loosening and subsequent loss of teeth. Periodontitis is affected by bacteria that adhere to the tooth’s surface, along with an overly aggressive immune response to these bacteria.
Periodontal disease is dangerous in that it is often painless and symptomless. Eighty percent 80% of Americans will be afflicted with periodontal disease by age 45, and 4 out of 5 patients with the disease are unaware they have it. It is important to maintain proper home oral care and regular dentist visits to reduce the risk of obtaining this disease.
The Woodlands Prosthodontics
Patient Review by Andrea D
Love the Dr and his staff, they are always helpful and concerned with my well being. I have had excellent work done on my teeth and would definitely recommend!
- Andrea D
Patient Review by Laura B
After coming here I suggested my husband come here for some work he needed done. We couldn't be happier with our care from the entire staff and the work that they have done!
- Laura B
Patient Review by Jennifer R
Throughout the several appointments I had, the staff always made sure I felt welcome as soon as I walked through the door
- Jennifer R
Patient Review by Kim B
I have been very scared to go to a dentist after experiencing a bad one years ago. I first called and talked to the receptionist there named Dottie. I love her!! She is so great and nice, made me feel so comfortable and excited to come see them! I am so glad I did!! Dr. Latthe was so wonderful and AMAZING!! He talked to me and made me feel comfortable!! I highly recommend their office!! Thank you so much for making me feel right at home and will never forget the kind words and encouragement y’all made me feel just being there!!
- Kim B
Patient Review by Heather M
This place is amazing! Not an ounce of pain, which says a lot considering dental work is not fun! The staff is amazing and they helped me with all my insurance issues. I was treated quickly and kindly! So thankful for Dr. Latthe!
- Heather M
Patient Review by Xochiquetzal F
This is by far the best dental office I've been too. They worked me in for a emergency tooth extraction. Dr. Latthe is amazing, he explained the whole procedure to me before even starting step by step. His staff was also amazing. They are all every caring. Ms.Dottie took well care of me from the moment I stepped foot in the door. She even held my hand during the procedure made me feel very comfortable. Alma was very friendly, kind hearted and kept checking up on me making sure I was doing good. Wish I could give them a 10 star rating because they really deserve it.
- Xochiquetzal F
Patient Review by Prashanth M
5.0 star rating 2/12/2018 First to Review This was by far the best experience I have ever had at a dentist's office!!! The equipment is brand new and modern, the office is comfortable and clean and the office staff are extremely friendly and helpful. Dr. Latthe is super friendly and professional. I had an implant put in recently and he did an amazing job. He explained the procedure in advance and allowed me to ask any questions beforehand. The procedure was smooth, efficient and virtually painless. If you're looking for a highly trained, friendly dentist who will take the time to do things right you won't go wrong with Dr. Latthe!
- Prashanth M
Patient Review by Tammy Lynn
Great dentist and office staff ! Would highly recommend.
- Tammy Lynn
Patient Review by Barbara W
The doctor is so honest. The visit was initially for a cracked crown, but the end result was an extraction. His staff is exceptional. Dr. Latteh is very gentle and compassionate in dealing with his patients.
- Barbara W
Patient Review by suzanne H
I would recommend this practice to all of my friends and family!!! Dr. Latthe is an exceptional doctor who truly cares about his patients!!!!! I am impressed with the amount of time he took to evaluate my condition and carefully explain the findings and the treatment plan! His entire staff is so friendly and professional!!!
- suzanne H
Patient Review by Barbara G
Extremely professional attitude and outstanding dental service. Explained all the procedures and set my mind at ease. Modern bright office and caring attitude sets this dentist apart from the other run of the mill dental offices. Definitely coming back and bringing my friends. !!!!
- Barbara G
Patient Review by Sujatha M
I had regular cleaning initially and went back for my dental implants. Dr..Latthe did an excellent job and with 3 implants I have minimum bleeding and pain. I love the professionalism of both the doctor and the office staff and would definitely refer all my friends and family
- Sujatha M
Patient Review by Rick E
I am so happy I found this office! Dr. Latthe is an amazing dentist. He is gentle and kind, and takes time with you to explain what he is going to do and answers any questions I had. Alma is his right hand,who has been an assistant for 15 years, and they work together very well. She is so gentle and kind! Its like a well oiled machine! Dottie at the front desk is also Dr. Latthes office manager, and is very knowledgeable in all areas of the dental office. She was very kind and reassuring to me when I called. I LOVE THIS OFFICE!
- Rick E
Patient Review by Sujatha M
My first experience was absolutely great. There was no waiting and the staff were super friendly and was ready with my insurance details and explained it to me.The doctor is well informed and takes all the time to explain everything in detail. I would absolutely recommend this doctor to everyone i know and will look forward to use his services to address all my dental issues.
- Sujatha M
Patient Review by Jennifer B
When was the last time you had an amazing experience at your dentist appointment?? I can tell you I have never had the experience that I was privileged to yesterday! Due to some issues I was having with both my teeth & mouth, and a family history of bone deterioration, I was extremely concerned. I actually "stumbled" upon Dr. Latthe and his staff with The Woodlands Prosthodontics yesterday morning while searching the internet regarding my dental concerns. My initial call was only going to be for informative purposes. Dottie was who answered. She could not have been any sweeter, knowledgeable and truly caring. She asked about my dental history and educated me on the first steps that needed to be taken (Exam, X-Rays & Cleaning). Through the course of our conversation she asked about my schedule, as there was an appointment that had just become available a few minutes prior to my call. I was quick to book the appointment and rearrange my workload so that I could be seen in only a few hours! Upon arrival, both Dottie and Minnie were quick to welcome me. They were both genuinely kind and helped to ease my concerns. Once my personal and insurance information was completed, Dottie walked me back to the patient care area. Within seconds, I was meeting both Dr. Latthe and his assistant Alma. The genuine kindness and concern did not stop, as they continued to speak with me gathering family and personal history, and also current issues at hand. Both Dr. Latthe and Alma were personable, thorough and professional while making me feel as if I had know them for years. As I mentioned prior, Dr. Latthe is an educator. He has the knack of taking the time to fully educate in a way that puts your mind at ease, which is what I needed. Alma spoke with me about kids, music and life in general while prepping and taking the necessary x-rays. After the x-rays were taken, Dr. Latthe came back in, sat down and spoke with me about each film and the findings. My mind was now at ease and the worry was gone. The plan of treatment needed for this appointment was just a good deep cleaning, as the things I was worried about were no longer an issue. You cannot imagine how relieved I was. Upon conclusion of my appointment I booked additional appointments for both my daughter and myself. We will be returning next week for her exam, x-rays & cleaning. I will at that time, have my small cavities taken care of and I have already booked our 6 month cleaning for July. After hugging the whole staff and also Dotties sister (who happened to be visiting), I walked out of there feeling amazing!! Everyone and anyone whom I encountered yesterday as well as this morning has been privileged to hear about my experience, as I start by saying "If you need an amazing dentist and staff I have one for you" ............ Thank you Dottie for listening to me describe my symptoms which I was trying to explain through my tears that were brought on by the fear of the unknown. Alma, I love your music choices and the discussions about our kids. And to Dr, Latthe, you picked the right field to be a professional in ........... your education is what is needed when it comes to someone like me. I needed your kind words assuring me that what I was experiencing was normal, and that we would work together moving forward. This visit to the dentist is one I will never forget. You now have mine and my families business and my story will be one that I will tell as I spread the word about your practice! Thank you over and over ............. today I am smiling and no longer consumed with concern!!
- Jennifer B
Patient Review by Maria Z
Had a great experience at The Woodlands Prosthodontics! Have had lots of problems with my previous denture prior to coming to this new Office. Dr. Latthe and his staff are kind and patient.
- Maria Z
Patient Review by Karen H
This office is awesome! Dr Latthe and staff are very professional and kind. I highly recommend this office to anyone looking for a new dental office!
- Karen H