What is Periodontal Disease?

Ongoing bacterial infection in the gums and bone around your teeth.

 

This infection leads to an inflammation under the gums, and if not treated, this inflammation will destroy the bone around your teeth.

 

Tooth loss is the result.

 

Approximately 75% of all adult tooth loss is due to periodontal infection.

Connected to several serious medical problems, including heart disease, diabetes and stroke.

What is an "Ongoing Infection"?

 

Periodontal DiseaseHave you ever gotten a sliver of wood caught under the skin of your hand?

Bacteria infect the site.

Inflammation occurs.

Your Immune System fights the bacteria but is unable to conquer it.

Bone Loss occurs.

Tooth Loss occurs.

What Can Worsen This Infection?

 

Poor oral hygiene:   Dental Plaque.  THIS CAUSES THE INFECTION

Smoking & Uncontrolled Diabetes:  The #1 FACTORS in worsening the infection.

Genetic factors

Stress or tension

Diet

Age

Illness such as diabetes

What can you do to make sure you do not have this Infection?

 

Get a Comprehensive Periodontal Examination.

Includes Probing Depths, Recession, Mobility, Plaque %, Calculus %.

A Full Series of Radiographs.  A PANO and 4 Bitewings does not show this infection.

Bone Loss %

DIAGNOSIS:  WHAT ARE THE PROBLEMS?  LIKE THE MEDICAL MODAL.

PROGNOSIS:  HOW LONG WILL YOU KEEP YOUR TEETH?

         The determine what the appropriate treatment is to avoid unnecessary and unpredictable treatment(s).

 

Symptoms of Periodontal Infection

 

Periodontal infection is usually PAINLESS until it reaches an advanced stage.

Red or swollen gums

Bleeding when brushing (pink toothbrush), or at other times

Aching, itchy, sore or tender gums

Receding gums (teeth beginning to look longer)

Pus between your teeth and gums when you press down on the gums

Bad breath

Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

Any change in the fit of partial dentures

Loose, separating or protruding teeth

Spaces between teeth

Important Note: Your gums can look and feel quite normal and yet deep pockets of periodontal infection can still be present. To be certain about any periodontal disease, ask your dentist or periodontist to examine your gums for signs of infection.

Why see a Periodontist?

 

A periodontist is a dental SPECIALIST in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease.

Periodontists receive extensive training for 3 additional years beyond dental school.

Periodontists are EXPERTS in the foundation around teeth.

We are the specialty that help treat this issue to best KEEP YOUR TEETH.

 

We also provide other treatments, such as crown lengthening and bone regeneration (see the Individual & Cosmetic Procedures section for more information on these procedures).