Periodontal Disease
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Understanding
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an inflammatory condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth and, in advanced stages, can damage the jawbone. It often starts as gingivitis, a mild gum infection caused by plaque. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
Types of Periodontal Disease:
Chronic Periodontitis: The most common type, causing gum recession and deep pockets.
Aggressive Periodontitis: Rapid progression in otherwise healthy individuals.
Necrotizing Periodontitis: Often seen in those with systemic conditions like HIV.
Systemic Disease-Related Periodontitis: Linked to conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
Call 503.682.9191 or use our form
to get your Periodontal Diagnosis or Treatment today.
Diagnosing
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is diagnosed during a regular dental check-up. Your dentist or hygienist will use a periodontal probe to measure the sulcus (space) between your teeth and gums. A healthy sulcus is three millimeters or less and doesn’t bleed. Deeper pockets may indicate periodontal disease, which can progress if untreated.
Stages of Periodontal Disease:
Gingivitis: The earliest stage, where plaque irritates the gums, causing tenderness, inflammation, and bleeding.
Periodontitis: Plaque hardens into tartar, leading to gum recession, deeper pockets, and slight to moderate bone loss.
Advanced Periodontitis: Continued destruction of gums, bone, and ligaments, resulting in loose teeth and significant bone loss.
Call 503.682.9191 or use our form
to get your Periodontal Diagnosis or Treatment today.
Treating
Periodontal Disease
The treatment for periodontal disease depends on its type and severity. Your dentist and hygienist will evaluate your condition and recommend the appropriate care.
Periodontal disease worsens as the pocket between the tooth and gums fills with bacteria, plaque, and tartar, leading to irritation and damage to the gums and supporting bone.
Early-Stage Treatment (Gingivitis):
If caught early, gingivitis can often be managed with one to two regular cleanings. You’ll also receive guidance on improving your daily oral hygiene and maintaining regular cleanings.
Advanced-Stage Treatment:
For more advanced cases, a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing will be recommended. This treatment involves removing tartar, plaque, and toxins from above and below the gum line (scaling) and smoothing rough spots on the root surfaces (planing) to promote healing and reduce pocket depth. Additional treatments like medications, medicated rinses, and electric toothbrushes may be suggested to aid healing.
Surgical Intervention:
If pockets do not heal after scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be necessary to reduce pocket depth and improve oral hygiene. Your dentist may also refer you to a periodontist for specialized care.
Call 503.682.9191 or use our form
to get your Periodontal Diagnosis or Treatment today.
Maintaining
Periodontal Health:
The Importance of Regular Cleanings
Plaque can turn into calculus (tartar) within just 24 hours if not properly removed. While daily brushing and flossing help control plaque and tartar, some areas are hard to reach and require professional attention.
After completing periodontal treatment, your dentist and hygienist will likely recommend regular maintenance cleanings (periodontal cleanings), typically four times a year. During these visits, the pocket depths around your teeth will be checked to ensure they remain healthy, and any plaque or calculus buildup will be removed from above and below the gum line.
Your periodontal cleaning and evaluation will typically include:
X-ray Examination: Detect decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss; assess tooth and root positions.
Check of Existing Restorations: Ensure fillings, crowns, and other restorations are intact.
Tooth Decay Check: Examine all tooth surfaces for signs of decay.
Oral Cancer Screening: Inspect the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, and gums for signs of oral cancer.
Oral Hygiene Advice: Recommend tools like electric toothbrushes, special brushes, and rinses to enhance your daily care.
Teeth Polishing: Remove stains and plaque missed by daily brushing.
Consistent oral hygiene and regular periodontal cleanings are key to maintaining dental health and keeping periodontal disease under control.