Healthy gums are the foundation of good oral health. Periodontal (gum) disease is the main reason adults lose their teeth. (Expert periodontal care works hand in hand with good medicine. Heart disease has recently been associated with gum disease. Dr. Krasowski collaborates with cardiologists to help lower post-surgery risks by using laser treatments on the teeth of qualified surgery candidates.) Watch for warning signs like persistent bad breath, dry mouth, or gums that bleed, swell, recede, or are tender. When caught early, treatment is routine and highly effective. The latest techniques in oral irrigation, available at Krasowski Dental, help eliminate bacteria that contribute to periodontal disease.

What is Plaque?
Plaque is sticky material made up of food particles, saliva, germs and bacteria that attaches to the tooth at and below the gum line.

Why Is Plaque so Hard to Remove?
Because of where it lives! Plaque that becomes a problem usually builds in the areas we fail to clean properly. We tend to neglect hard to reach areas, such as at and below the gum line, in between the teeth, and all the little nooks of the tooth. It is the plaque which has attached itself to other plaque that is so tenacious and hard to remove.

What is Calculus?
Hardened plaque! Well, it is not that simple and all plaque does not form calculus. However, when combined with other ingredients and factors, mineralized or calcified plaque is described as calculus. Calculus is usually more difficult to remove than plaque and can begin to form in as little as eight hours.

What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a disease of the supporting tissues of the teeth. The first stage, Gingivitis, is an inflammation or swelling of the gums. The second stage, Periodontal, affects the ligaments and bones that hold your teeth. It is the number one cause of tooth loss, but is usually treatable if detected early.