Periodontal disease is the most common chronic disorder that has plagued humans for centuries. It begins as an inflammation of the gums and slowly progresses to erode the underlying bone. If left untreated for a very long time it can lead to tooth loss.
The Denver, CO dentist and their team are skilled in detecting periodontal disease at an early stage and provide the necessary treatment.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, popularly known as gum disease, is a dental condition characterized by an infection or inflammation of the periodontium supporting your tooth. It may initially begin as mild swelling and bleeding of the gums, and slowly progress to destroy the underlying alveolar bone.
| The periodontium comprises the cementum, gums, periodontal ligament, and the alveolar bone. It helps support and anchor the tooth. |
What causes periodontal disease?
Bacteria is considered to be the prime suspect for periodontal disease. Increased bacterial accumulation can lead to the formation of plaque (a thin sticky biofilm) that adheres to the tooth surfaces. Over some time, the plaque hardens to form calculus. This paves the way for the secretion of harmful acids and toxins that erode the tooth and the periodontium.
Are there any risk factors associated with periodontal disease?
- Genetic predisposition
- Poor oral hygiene
- Pregnancy and menopause due to hormonal changes
- Smoking
- Stress
- Medications such as immunosuppressants and those that reduce saliva production
- Certain autoimmune diseases like lupus
- Heart or respiratory disease
How is periodontal disease manifested?
- Red, swollen gums
- Tender, painful gums
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Pain when chewing
- Poor bite due to malocclusion
- Receding gums
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Loose teeth
How is periodontal disease treated?
Non-surgical options
For mild to moderate disease
- Professional oral cleaning
- Supragingival (above gum line) cleaning
- Subgingival (below the gum line) deep scaling
- Root planing
- Medications
- Antibiotic gels
- Antimicrobial mouth rinse
- Enzyme suppressants
- Gingival pocket irrigation
Surgical options
For moderate to severe cases
- Pocket elimination surgery
- A flap surgery to reduce the size of the gingival pocket between the gums and the teeth.
- Tissue regeneration
- A biocompatible layer or membrane is inserted into the affected area to promote regeneration of the tissues.
- Gum grafting
- Helps to reattach the lost gingival tissues on the exposed tooth surface
- Bone grafting
- Aids in bone regrowth using graft material.
- Dental implants
- Replace lost teeth by mimicking the tooth roots to provide anchorage to permanent restorations like crowns and dentures.
Summary
Periodontal disease has been a prevailing dental problem, after tooth decay. Understanding the warning signs is essential since it helps you seek timely dental care on time to prevent further damage.
