What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is simply gum disease. It is one of the most common adult dental problems. Gum disease can actually begin at any age. Periodontal disease can sneak up on you as it develops very slowly over time without causing pain. Periodontal or (gum disease) is very serious because you may not notice any signs of the disease until it is serious and you are already in danger of losing teeth.
Many people lose their teeth due to periodontal disease than for any other reason. Infected gums left un treated can gradually destroy the very jaw bone that supports your teeth. Bleeding gums can create an opening that allows this bacteria to enter your bloodstream and advance to your heart and other organs. There is mounting evidence that connects periodontal disease to heart infection and stroke.
Regularly check for these signs of periodontal disease?
- A change in the color of your gums,
- Gums that are red around your teeth,
- Gums that bleed every time you brush or floss,
- Bad breath that will not go away,
- A taste of metal in your mouth,
- Shiny, puffy or sore gums,
- Teeth that are sensitive for no reason.
What causes periodontal disease?
Periodontal (gum) disease is caused by a serious infection that can spread around the root of the teeth causing bone reduction and, if left untreated, tooth loss.
Gum disease goes through several stages. As the disease progresses in severity, the periodontal treatment options become more complex, costly, and time-intensive. It is important that at the first signs of the disease, you should schedule an appointment with us to have a periodontal examination done by our qualified dental hygienist and reviewed by Dr. Kapoor.
Gingivitis
The earliest and mildest form of periodontal disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis is characterized by swelling of the gums. Often, the gums will bleed during normal brushing and flossing. Gingivitis is reversible with professional periodontal treatment and consistent oral care at home.
Periodontitis
There are several stages of the advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis:
Aggressive periodontitis is a form of gum disease found in patients who have otherwise good overall oral health. Common symptoms of aggressive periodontitis include a rapid increase in the size of gum pockets adjacent to the tooth, which leads to bone degradation.
Chronic periodontitis is a form of gum disease that requires immediate periodontal treatment. This form of periodontitis causes inflammation within the supporting tissue of the teeth leading to progressive plaque attachment and rapid bone loss. Chronic periodontitis is the most common form of gum disease and although it is prevalent in adults, it can occur at any age. If left untreated, this form of gum disease will require gum surgery.
Necrotizing periodontal disease is one of the most dangerous forms of gum disease. This is characterized by necrosis (death of the supporting tissue) of gingival tissues, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. This is a very aggressive form of gum disease and often leaves gum surgery as your periodontist’s only treatment option.
What is the treatment for periodontal disease?
Active Therapy – a customized approach designed to arrest the disease and remove hard to reach tartar and allow gum tissue to heal.
Details including treatment benefits and fees will be explained in consultation. Working with your consent and values, we decide together how best to treat and manage the disease based on the stage. Whether you wish to retain your own natural teeth, or elect to have your teeth replaced with prosthetics as you age, adequate quality jaw bone is still a requirement. The best course of action is to preserve your natural tissue.
A skilled periodontist will evaluate your condition and depending on its severity, recommend either non-surgical periodontal treatment or gum surgery.
If you feel you may have periodontal disease or have any questions please contact our Grimsby Dental Office to make an appointment by clicking the button below.
