Periodontology is a dental specialty that treats the teeth's support system: the gums, periodontal ligaments, and jawbones. Patients develop periodontal disease when these support structures suffer damage due to infection.
About Periodontal Disease
Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease poses a significant threat to many patients' oral health. Occurring in roughly half of all American adults, this preventable disease is a leading cause of tooth loss.
Periodontal disease occurs when plaque and calculus (tartar) build-up along the gum line. These substances release bacterial toxins that damage the support structures holding the teeth in place.
Periodontists help patients manage their symptoms and preserve as many teeth as possible. The earlier patients receive treatment for periodontal disease, the better they can control or even reverse it.
To understand this crucial dental specialty, we must first understand periodontal disease and how it endangers patients' oral health.
Causes of Periodontal Disease
Poor Oral Hygiene
The primary cause of periodontal disease is a lack of consistent oral hygiene. Brushing is an important step, but flossing is vital to preventing and controlling periodontal disease. Keeping an irregular dental visit schedule can also cause problems.
Smoking
Smoking of any kind restricts blood flow to the gums.
Dry Mouth
A dry mouth reduces the amount of beneficial saliva in your mouth. It can stem from nasal congestion, medications, or sleep apnea, among other causes.
Chronic Diseases
Diabetes and autoimmune diseases like lupus are two common causes of gum disease.
Hormonal Changes
Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can increase a patient's vulnerability to periodontal disease.
Stress
Researchers believe that stress interferes with inflammatory and immune responses, reducing saliva and increasing a patient's chance of periodontal disease.
Genetics
Patients with a family history may be more likely to develop the disease.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease By Stage
Gingivitis: Early Periodontal Disease
It is important to remember that gingivitis is fully reversible, given proper home care and professional cleaning. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact us or your family dentist immediately for help.
- Swollen gums
- Red or darkened gums
- Gums that bleed when brushed or flossed
Moderate Periodontal Disease
When periodontal disease progresses past gingivitis, it is no longer reversible, though your doctor can help you control it:
- Bad breath or unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Receding gums
- More space between teeth
- Loose teeth
Severe Periodontal Disease
- Pain while chewing
- Pus along the gum line
- Altered dental bite
- Teeth loose to the point of falling out
How Doctors Treat Periodontal Disease
Scaling and Root Planing
This technique removes every trace of plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and below the gum line. Patients receive local anesthesia to prevent discomfort. This procedure is valuable in treating early to moderate stages of periodontal disease.
Surgical Periodontics
Periodontists have several surgical options to restore gum health and protect teeth:
- Osseous Surgery: The doctor makes a small opening in the gum to access the roots and bone underneath. They clean the bone and root surfaces, debride them to remove infection, and then close the gum over the bone with sutures.
- Guided Bone Regeneration: Bone grafting uses donor bone material to create a scaffold for new bone growth. Healthy bone gives the teeth a sturdier foundation and helps to prevent tooth loss.
- Periodontal Plastic Surgery: This surgery focuses on adding more tissue to the gum line. Doctors can cover exposed tooth roots or aesthetically restore the gum line.
Focus on Prevention and Early Detection
Periodontists want you to know that this disease is often preventable. Take excellent care of your teeth and gums by brushing, flossing, and visiting your family dentist twice yearly. You will improve your oral health and lower your chances of developing this dangerous condition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontology
What should I do if my gums bleed when I floss?
If you suspect you have gingivitis, contact your family dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation. Your family dentist can help you step up your home care routine and provide a professional cleaning.
Why does periodontal disease cause tooth loss?
After years of damage from infection, the ligaments, gums, and bones supporting your teeth begin to break down. The support structures are no longer sufficient to hold your teeth firmly in place.
At Medford Periodontics in Medford, NJ, we have extensive experience restoring patients' oral health and saving endangered teeth. If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above or have been referred by your family dentist, please contact us to schedule your appointment today.