Periodontal Examinations and Treatments
Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is one of the most common dental health issue. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. 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 care is essential to help prevent this.
Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it! Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages.
Research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases. Diseases such as stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease. There is also an increased risk during pregnancy. Researchers are determining if inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease affects these systemic diseases and conditions. Smoking also increases the risk of periodontal disease.
Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
- Bleeding gums
- Loose teeth
- New spacing between teeth
- Bad breath.
- Pus around the teeth and gums
- Receding gums
- Red and puffy gums
- Tenderness or discomfort
Stages Of Gum Disease
Gingivitis, Periodontitis, And Advanced Periodontitis
Gum disease is caused by oral bacteria building up between your teeth and gums. This bacteria slowly attacks the gum tissue and begins to infect and destroy it. The first stage of periodontal disease is called “gingivitis”. During this stage, the damage to your teeth and gums is typically reversible with proper care and oral hygiene.
“Periodontitis” is the second stage of gum disease. At this stage, some permanent damage may have been done to your teeth and gum, but the progression of the disease can still be halted. “Advanced periodontitis” is the final stage of the disease. Once the disease progresses to this point, you may require invasive oral surgery to restore your dental health. This will involve extraction and tooth replacement with dentures or implants.
Diagnosis
Recognizing The Symptoms Of Periodontal Disease
There are a number of easily recognizable signs and symptoms. Gingivitis, the earliest stage of the disease, is usually characterized by sensitive, puffy, and red or dark gums. Your mouth may bleed while brushing, and you may also suffer from persistent bad breath (halitosis). As your symptoms get worse, you may notice issues like a bad taste in your mouth, lengthening of the teeth (recession of the gums), sensitivity to pressure when chewing, and a foul taste in your mouth. In cases of advanced periodontitis, you may notice that your teeth are loose, or your teeth may even begin to fall out because their roots are decaying and dying.
Why do we need Periodontal Care
Gum Disease & Your Overall Health
Gum disease can have a significant effect on your overall, systemic health. Inflammation may travel from your gums through the small blood vessels in your mouth and spread throughout your body, increasing the risk of serious health issues like heart attack and stroke. Proper oral care and periodontal treatment are required to eliminate the disease and safeguard your overall health.
Periodontal Care
With Deep Cleanings
Also called “scaling and root planning”, are typically the first step in the treatment of gingivitis and gum disease. Your dentist uses specialized dental tools to remove plaque and bacteria from between your gums and teeth. The roots of your teeth are smoothened to help remove bacteria. This prevents the formation of bacteria pockets, which attack and destroy the root of your tooth. If you notice signs and symptoms of gum disease, schedule your appointment with us today.
Maintenance of Periodontal Care
Proper Oral Hygeine
It only takes twenty four hours for plaque that is not removed from your teeth to turn into tartar! Daily home cleaning helps control plaque and tartar formation, but those hard to reach areas will always need special attention.
Once your periodontal treatment has been completed, your dentist will recommend that you have regular maintenance cleanings . Plaque and calculus that is difficult for you to remove will be removed from above and below the gum line .Depending on your situation you will require cleanings 2-4 times a year.
In addition to your periodontal cleaning and evaluation, your appointment will usually include:
- Examination and diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.
- Examination of existing restorations: check current fillings, crowns, etc.
- Examination of tooth decay: check all tooth surfaces for decay.
- Oral cancer screening: check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, cheek tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
- Oral hygiene recommendations: review and recommend oral hygiene aids as needed.
- Teeth polishing: The dentist removes stain and plaque.
Good oral hygiene practices and having your cleanings are essential for you .