Do you have Periodontal Disease?
PERIODONTAL DISEASE
is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults.
Periodontal disease, an infection of the gums, the jawbones and supporting structures, can affect any member of your family. In many cases this disease begins at an early age and if allowed to continue untreated can eventually mean the loss of teeth.
Periodontal disease is virtually painless and in the early stages is difficult to detect except by a dentist.
What is
PERIODONTAL DISEASE?
Periodontal disease is an infection that attacks the supporting structures of teeth... namely the bone, ligaments, and gums that support the teeth in the jaws. In its early stages, it is called gingivitis (gum inflammation); the more advanced stage is known as periodontitis.
How do you know if you have
PERIODONTAL DISEASE?
Your dentist will spot signs of Periodontal disease during your regular checkup, but you should check yourself and watch for the first symptoms of Periodontal disease.
Early Stage Periodontal Disease
- Bleeding gums
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Reddish discolored gums
- Tender gums
- Bad breath
- Bad taste
Late Stage Periodontal Disease
- Loose gums
- Loose teeth
- Gum recession
- Change in tooth position
What causes
PERIODONTAL DISEASE?
Periodontal disease is caused by PLAQUE. It is the sticky film composed mostly of bacteria that forms continuously on the teeth and must be removed daily to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque build-up initiates the infection which causes gum tissues to become red, puffy and bleed easily. If not removed, the plaque gradually hardens into calculus (tartar), and spaces develop between the gums and the teeth. These spaces are called Periodontal Pockets. Plaque collects in those pockets and produces products which destroy the bone supporting the teeth. If the disease progresses unchecked, you will lose teeth.
How do I prevent
PERIODONTAL DISEASE?
Since Periodontal disease often begins at an early age, preventive techniques should be started early. The best method of prevention is to thoroughly remove plaque deposits from the teeth next to the gums every day. To do this, disclose the plaque, then use dental floss and a toothbrush. Since dental plaque is essentially invisible, a red dye in the form of a tablet or liquid is used to locate the plaque. Dental floss removes plaque from the surfaces between the teeth and a toothbrush removes plaque from the inside, outside, and top surfaces of the teeth. Dental staff can show you the best procedure for using dental floss and a toothbrush to remove plaque and prevent Periodontal disease.
However, no matter how well you brush or floss your teeth, there are still hidden areas where plaque is missed and calculus forms. Special cleaning procedures to remove this calculus must be performed at the dentist's office. During this visit your dentist can also check for any signs of preliminary Periodontal disease. Your dentist follows three steps to check for Periodontal disease:
- Examines for inflamed gum tissues.
- Inspects radiographs (x rays) for possible hidden bone loss.
- Examines for loose teeth and bite problems which may place unnecessary pressures on the teeth
Treatment of
PERIODONTAL DISEASE
The first treatment phase is to eliminate the cause of the disease to allow the tissues to heal.
This involves:
- Thorough removal of plaque by flossing and brushing at home;
- Removal of calculus above and below the gum line and treatment of the diseased root surface at the dental office.
A second treatment phase may be necessary if the periodontal pockets are too deep to allow proper plaque removal and the disease continues to progress at the base of the pockets. The second phase is performed at the dentist's office where periodontal pockets are eliminated through additional procedures. Correction of bite and stabilization of loose teeth may also be necessary.
The final treatment phase is a lifetime cooperative effort by patient and dentist.
It involves the maintenance of plaque free root surfaces by:
- Daily plaque removal.
- Maintenance of plaque-free root surfaces.
- Regular professional dental care which includes checkups and cleaning at proper intervals.
Dr. Molly Rodgers, General Dentist - Providing services in cosmetic dentistry to the area of Edmonton Alberta, Canada.
