What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection which affects the gums and tissue around the teeth.  Also known as periodontitis or gum disease, this progressive condition can lead to tooth loss when left untreated.  In fact, periodontal disease is the most common cause of tooth loss for adults living in the developed world. 

Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria which forms a sticky substance known as plaque.  When plaque is not adequately removed from the teeth with flossing and brushing, the toxins contained in the plaque begin to irritate and inflame the gum tissue or gingiva.  Referred to as gingivitis, this infection can destroy the gum tissue as well as the bone and connective tissue holding the teeth in place.

Periodontal disease can manifest itself in several different forms of periodontitis, including chronic, aggressive and necrotizing periodontitis.  All types of periodontal disease require immediate attention and treatment in order to prevent tissue, bone and tooth loss.

Signs & Symptoms

Periodontal disease can be a silent disease, meaning that symptoms may not appear until the condition has advanced significantly.  That is why regular dental checkups are so important.  While different types of periodontitis are associated with particular sets of signs and symptoms, the following are some of the symptoms most commonly experienced by patients with periodontal disease:

• Painful, red or swollen gums:  Inflamed, red and tender gums are often indicators of periodontal disease and should be assessed and treated by a dental professional as soon as possible.
• Bleeding:  Patients with periodontal disease very commonly experience bleeding while brushing, flossing or eating.  This occurs because the bacterial infection damages the gum tissue, making it more likely to bleed. 
• Loose or separating teeth:  As periodontitis can cause destruction of the bone and tissue that support teeth, loose or shifting teeth can be a sign of periodontal disease.
• Receding gums:  The toxins produced by the bacteria which cause periodontitis can lead to the recession of gum tissue, resulting in longer looking teeth.
• Bad breath:  Food particles and bacteria trapped in the gum pockets which form during periodontitis can lead to bad breath or halitosis.
• Pus:  Pus oozing between gums and teeth results from the body's attempt to fight the bacterial infection and is another sign of periodontitis.

 Treatment

The main purpose of treatment is to stop the progression of periodontal disease in order to prevent gum, bone and tooth damage.  Mild or moderate periodontitis may be treated with antibiotics and a procedure known as scaling and root planing.  Scaling and root planing involves deep cleaning to remove debris and bacteria from beneath the gum line.

For more severe cases of periodontal disease, possible treatment options include:

• Laser treatment:  Lasers may be used to reduce the size of pockets between the teeth and gums where debris and bacteria can accumulate.
• Tissue and bone grafting: In cases where bone or tissue degeneration has occurred, new growth or regeneration can be encouraged through the insertion of a membrane.
• Pocket elimination surgery:  Also known as flap surgery, this treatment method reduces the size of the periodontal pockets so that it is easier to keep the area clean.

Contact us for your professional periodontal evaluation. (310) 481-0111