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What is periodontal
disease?
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is the leading cause
of tooth loss in adults. It is a disease of the gums and
bone, which support the teeth. Gum disease is generally
painless. In fact, many people are not even aware that
they have gum disease. Unfortunately, if gum disease
is not treated, it can lead to abscesses (pus pockets)
or even tooth loss. The best way to determine if you
have gum disease is to ask a dentist or periodontist.
Gum disease is caused by dental plaque (bacteria) present on the gum tissues surrounding the teeth. In the early phase, plaque that is not removed from around the teeth can cause a condition called gingivitis. Gingivitis is a condition that results in red gums that often bleed easily. Gingivitis can be eliminated through professional tooth cleaning and improved oral hygiene. If gingivitis is not properly managed, it can progress into a much more serious condition called periodontitis. Bone loss around the teeth is the primary sign of periodontitis or periodontal disease. Active periodontitis causes destruction of the supporting tissues of the teeth including the bone and gum tissue. If not treated properly, excessive bone loss around teeth can cause teeth to become loose or lost. There are many different treatments for periodontal disease including root planing (deep cleaning), gum surgery, antibiotic therapy, tissue regeneration procedures and bone grafting. Treatment must be customized for each patient based on the severity of the disease and careful analysis of individual risk factors.
What is a
periodontist?
A Periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on
treating diseases of the supporting structures of the
teeth including the gums and jawbone. Following graduation
from dental school, the periodontist receives an additional
two to three years of graduate training to become a dental
specialist. In addition to the diagnosis and treatment of
gum disease, many periodontist have received extensive training
in dental implants.
Is there a cure for
gum disease?
Gum disease is classified as a chronic disease. Chronic means
forever. Gum disease does not have a permanent cure. However,
it can be successfully treated and through proper follow-up
care, your teeth can be maintained for a lifetime.
How do I know if I
have gum disease?
Warning signs for gum disease include red and bleeding gums,
loose teeth, moving teeth, bad breath and receding gums.
In many cases, there are no obvious signs that you have gum
disease. The best way to determine if you have gum disease
is to have a periodontal exam performed by a dentist or
periodontist. Gum disease is diagnosed by examining the
condition of your gums and studying dental radiographs (x-rays).
Are there any new
treatments for treating gum disease?
There are many exciting new treatments for managing gum
disease. There are new treatments that may help bone
grow back around infected teeth. There are also new
medications that can be placed in the gum around the
teeth to eliminate the bacteria that cause active gum
disease. Many incredible tools for battling gum
disease are currently under development.
I do not like the
way my smile looks, can a periodontist help?
Periodontist often work with your dentist to make your
smile look nicer. The appearance of short teeth, "gummy smiles"
and uneven teeth can often be improved through a surgical
procedure called "periodontal plastic surgery." Many beauty
pageant contestants including winners of the Miss America
and Miss Hawaii pageants have been through these remarkable
procedures.
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