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Periodontal means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease (periodontitis and gum disease) is a common inflammatory condition that affects the supporting and surrounding soft tissues of the tooth, and in advanced stages affects the jawbone.
Gingivitis precedes periodontal disease, a bacterial infection of gum tissue. A bacterial infection affects the gums when the toxins contained in plaque begin to irritate and inflame the gum tissues. Once this bacterial infection colonizes in the gum pockets between the teeth, it becomes much more difficult to remove and treat.
Periodontal disease progresses and leads to the destruction of oral connective tissue and works its way into the jawbone. Ignored, it can cause tooth loss, loose teeth, and shifting teeth. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults, and we address it as quickly as possible.
If left untreated, mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) can spread below the gum line. When a person's gums are overcome by plaque toxins, a chronic inflammatory response will cause the body to break down and destroy soft tissue and bone.
Here are the stages of periodontal disease:
Chronic periodontitis– This is the most common form of periodontal disease. It is inflammation within supporting tissues that causes gum recession and deep pockets. It will look like teeth are lengthening, but it is gum tissue that is receding.
Aggressive periodontitis– Rapid loss of gum attachment and continuous bone destruction. This gum disease happens in an otherwise healthy individual.
Necrotizing periodontitis– This form occurs in people suffering from systemic conditions that include malnutrition, HIV, and immunosuppression. Necrosis (tissue death) occurs in periodontal ligaments, bone and gum tissue.
Periodontitis caused by systemic disease– This form of gum disease often begins at an early age with medical conditions like respiratory disease, diabetes, and heart disease.
Don't delay: periodontal disease leads as the cause of tooth loss among adults, and we address it as quickly as possible.
Periodontal disease can progress without any sign or symptom, and this is why our recommendation for dental checkups are imperative. Some of the common signs and symptoms of periodontal disease are:
There are nonsurgical treatments that we may recommend, depending upon the exact condition of a patient's teeth, gums, and jawbone. A complete periodontal exam of the mouth will be done before any treatment is performed or recommended.
Here are some of the more common treatments for periodontal disease:
Twenty-four hours is all that is needed for plaque to turn into calculus (tartar)! Daily home brushing and flossing helps to control plaque and tartar formation, but those hard to reach areas will always need special attention.Good oral hygiene practices and periodontal cleanings are essential in maintaining dental health and keeping periodontal disease under control!
Our patients love the individual attention and care they receive at Robertsdale Dental Care, and we are confident you will too.
Relief from your dental issue and from the anxiety that often accompanies dental problems is at the heart of Robertsdale Dental Care.
Our hygienists and dental assistant staff have an average of 15 years of experience. Including the doctors, we have a combined 236 years of dental health practice.
Our dental assistant staff and hygienists have an average of 15 years of experience. Including the doctors, we have a combined 236 years of dental health practice.
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