What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is something that effects a large portion of the population. It is basically a disease that causes pockets or spaces in the gum tissue, allowing bacteria to enter. The build up of plaque causes the gums to recede and form these pockets. Normal brushing cannot reach this build up and over time,  and if it is not treated, the pockets continue to get deeper.

•    Diagnosis: Gingivitis is the beginning stages of periodontal disease. Bleeding when brushing is a sign of this, as is inflammation and tenderness. A small probe will be entered between the tooth and gums to measure the depth of any pockets that may be present.

•    Treatment: Gingivitis and periodontal disease must be treated to prevent further destruction of teeth, gums, bone, eventually even leading to tooth loss. Depending on the extent of the disease, a deep cleaning and scaling will be suggested and will typically be done with local numbing. When the build up has been removed from below the gum line, over time the tissue will heal, coming back stronger and causing the pockets to get smaller.

•    Maintenance: Follow-up appointments will be recommended to keep an eye on healing progress. If improvement is not seen over time, a visit to a periodontist specialist may be in order. Medicated rinses, consistent flossing and using an electric toothbrush are some of the home treatments suggested as well.