The word periodontal means around the tooth. Periodontal disease affects gums and tooth-supporting bone, caused by plaque turning into tartar if not removed. Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Many people have periodontal disease unknowingly because early stages are typically painless. It's a leading cause of tooth loss and may correlate with other conditions like stroke, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease due to inflammation and bacteria. Quitting smoking, maintaining oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental check-ups can lower the risk of developing periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease is diagnosed through a periodontal examination during regular dental check-ups. A periodontal probe measures pocket depths between teeth and gums, with depths over three millimeters indicating potential gingivitis or periodontal disease progression. Your dentist or hygienist will use pocket depths, amount of bleeding, inflammation, tooth mobility, etc., to make a diagnosis that will fall into a category below:
Periodontal treatment depends on the disease's type and severity. Dentists and hygienists evaluate and recommend suitable treatments. Periodontal disease advances as pockets between teeth and gums fill with bacteria, plaque, and tartar, irritating surrounding tissues and damaging gums and bone.
Without bone damage, early-stage gingivitis may be treated with one to two regular cleanings and improved oral hygiene instructions. Maintaining proper brushing and flossing habits at home is essential for recovery.
Advanced stages require scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), done one mouth quadrant at a time under local anesthesia. This procedure removes tartar, plaque, and toxins from above and below the gum line, smoothing root surfaces to promote gum healing and pocket reduction.
Regular three-month cleanings are recommended for periodontal disease patients, along with medications, medicated rinses, and electric toothbrushes to control infection and aid healing. If pockets don't heal post-procedure, periodontal surgery may be necessary. A periodontist may also be consulted for specialized care.
Plaque can turn into tartar within 24 hours if not removed, making daily cleaning crucial. After periodontal treatment, dentists recommend maintenance cleaning four times a year to check pocket depths and remove difficult plaque and calculus.
Review and recommend oral hygiene aids as needed:
Good oral hygiene practices and periodontal cleanings are essential in maintaining dental health and keeping periodontal gum disease under control!
