PERIODONTAL DISEASE

The word periodontal  means “around the tooth”. Periodontal disease attacks the gum and the bone that supports the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris and bacteria. If plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar). When plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone. Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen and bleeding gums.

Approximately 85% of the adult population has periodontal disease and don’t know it. Most people are unaware of it because it is usually painless in the early stages.

In addition to being the number one reason for tooth loss, research suggests there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, bacterial pneumonia and increased risk during pregnancy.

Research is ongoing with respect to how the bacteria and inflammation associated with periodontal disease affects these systemic conditions and our overall health.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet and regular dental visits help reduce your risks of developing periodontal disease.

SIGNS OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE

• Bleeding gums – gums should never bleed

• Loose teeth –caused by bone loss

• New spacing between teeth – a result of bone loss
• Persistent bad breath –caused by bacteria in the mouth
• Pus around teeth and gums – bacteria causing infection
• Receding gums – loss of gum around the tooth
• Red or puffy gums – gums should never be inflammed
• Pain, tenderness or discomfort – caused by presence of plaque, bacteria and/or calculus deposits irritating the teeth, gums and/or bone

DIAGNOSIS 

Periodontal health is determined by:

• Carefully measuring the sulcus (pocket or space)  between the tooth and gums with a periodontal probe (small dental instrument), as periodontal disease progresses, pockets get deeper
• Evaluating degree of gum recession, quality of gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth

STAGES OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. Plaque and its toxin by-products irritate the gums, making them tender, inflamed and likely to bleed.

Periodontitis

Plaque hardens into calculus (tartar) which spreads below the gum line. As calculus and plaque continue to build up, the gums begin to separate and/or recede from the teeth. Deeper pockets form between the gums and the teeth, filling with bacteria and pus. The gums become very irritated, inflamed and bleed easily. Slight to moderate bone loss may be present.

Advanced Periodontitis

As the disease progresses, teeth loose more support as the gums and bone continue to be destroyed. Unless treated, the affected teeth will become very loose and may be lost. Moderate to severe bone loss may be present.

TREATMENT

Periodontal treatment methods depend on the type and severity of the disease and usually consist of one or a combination of the following:

• Oral hygiene instruction
• Scaling and/or Root planning
• Surgical Intervention
• Medications/Rinses
• Regular Maintenance

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