What is Periodontal Disease? Periodontal disease is another name for gum disease. It's caused by bacteria found in the mouth. If not treated promptly, it can lead to excessive tooth decay and ultimately tooth loss. Destroying the supportive soft tissue of the gums, the teeth get loose and potentially fall out. In the latter stages, gum disease is incurable and needs to be managed for the remainder of the patient's life. If you have questions, reach out to us at Mission Hills Periodontics. CausesWhen not removed regularly, bacteria on teeth and gum tissue can turn into tartar which then, in turn, becomes plaque. The only way to remove plaque is by having a professional cleaning done. If the plaque remains on the teeth it is a contributing factor to gum disease. Gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease, is the only stage in which periodontal disease can be reversed. Once it progresses further, it is incurable. For those patients dealing with hormonal changes that can occur during puberty, menopause, and pregnancy, gums can be more prone to gingivitis which is a contributing factor to gum disease. For those patients who smoke, abuse alcohol, or who do not have good oral hygiene, they are at a higher risk of developing periodontal disease. Periodontal Disease SymptomsInterestingly enough, periodontal disease symptoms can sometimes go unnoticed because they do not always cause pain. The most recognizable sign is swollen gums which bleed while brushing or flossing. Sometimes, blood may show up on the toothbrush or in the sink when patients are spitting the toothpaste out. If they have spaces or pockets forming between teeth and gums, this can also be an indicator of gum disease. Diagnosis of Gum DiseaseIt is easy to spot some of the symptoms of periodontal disease but in order for it to be correctly diagnosed it needs to be examined by a periodontist. They will give a proper examination, looking for the gums pulling away from the teeth and checking for bone mass loss along with the jawbones. Gum Disease Treatment ProtocolThere is no treatment for gum disease once it progresses beyond gingivitis which is the earliest stage. Once it moves to the later stages the only treatment available is to manage the symptoms regularly, so it does not progress any faster. Staff will address the pockets which form along the gum line between teeth and the gums. Typically, surgery is needed to restore failing gum tissue as well as adding bone mass to jawbones. Typically, maintenance is a lifelong commitment. This cleans the bacteria from the exposed sites and keeps down the chances of infection, so the disease does not progress any further. Prevention of Gum DiseaseWhile tooth flossing and brushing will help to keep your mouth as healthy as possible, it is necessary to have professional cleanings performed every three to four months for the patient's entire lifetime. It is important to combat gum disease because it has been linked to other more serious health problems. Feel free to contact us at Mission Hills Periodontics or give us a call at (619) 356-5989 to schedule your office visit or cleaning. |
