Periodontal disease is the term to describe inflammation and destruction of the structures that surround the tooth. Periodontal disease destruction is caused by bacteria found in dental plaque on the teeth and gums. Your body produces substances that destroy the supporting structures of the teeth, including gums and bone, trying to get rid of the infection. If the disease does not get treated in early stages the teeth become loose and can result in tooth loss.
Periodontal Disease
Symptoms Include:
- Red, swollen or bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth
Periodontal disease is relatively painless. Most people do not feel pain until later stages of infection.
Staying Healthy
How we check for periodontal disease:
Annual probing measurements taken by our Registered Dental Hygienists so that we can check for early signs of infection.Radiographs (X-rays) are also taken on an annual basis to check the teeth and surrounding bone health.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease:
Treatment depends on how severe your periodontal disease is. Most mild and moderate cases first start with a non-surgical procedure called scaling and root planing. Some people refer to this as a “deep cleaning.”
When infection has done significant damage to the bone and gums there are surgical procedures called gingival flap surgery. This procedure involves pulling back the gums from the tooth and bone in order to perform the scaling and root planing. With early detection of infection with probing measurements and x-rays this procedure can be avoided.
Maintence is KEY! Your home care is crucial with this disease. Our office recommends the use of a waterpik and floss daily in order to maintain. When a patient does not follow through with home care and recommended hygiene visits the infection can return.
