Periodontics
All About Gum Health
Some Useful Definitions:
Periodontal simply means “the tissue around the teeth”.
Periodontal Disease (Gum disease) is an infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth.
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease indication active inflammation with our without corresponding bone loss. Signs of gingivitis are red, inflamed tissue that bleeds more easily. It does not usually hurt.
Periodontitis moderate to severe gum disease indicating active bone infection and/or bone loss. Signs of periodontitis is tissue separating from the teeth causing a “pocket” (a cuff of tissue) that measures 4 millimeters or more. This pocket provides a home for bacteria, and left untreated, can cause the bone and other tooth-supporting tissues to be destroyed. It does not usually hurt.
Recession is loss of attached gum tissue around the tooth.
Abraision, Erosion and Abfraction are three different terms that describe loss of root structure at the gum line, often resulting in cold or heat sensitivity.
Treatment Options
The goods news is gingivitis is reversible; all it takes is better home hygiene and more regular professional cleanings.
When you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease we recommend a treatment called scaling and root planning. This procedure can range from site-specific treatment where just a small area is infected, to quadrant scaling, where one section of the mouth is cleaned at each separate appointment. What we find works best in our office is to customize the treatment based on you specific needs. If at any point the scope of the disease is more advanced we might refer you to a Periodontist—a doctor that specializes gum disease diagnosis and treatment.
Inflamation (gingivitis and gum disease) is a risk to your overall systemic health. Research indicates that periodontal disease puts your body at higher risk of cardiovascular disease and strokes. Also, pregnant women with periodontal disease may have an increased risk for pre-term or low birth weight babies. Smokers and people with periodontal disease are at an increased risk for the developing diabetes.
We will explore with you and offer treatment options for any active gum conditions you might have. Then through proper preventive care and excellent oral hygiene we can avoid further problems associated with gum disease.