Periodontal disease is the official name for gum disease in the dental world. Periodontal tissue is the soft pink tissue that covers the roots of your teeth and the underlying bone. When this tissue becomes irritated and inflamed due to plaque bacteria, the resulting condition is called periodontal disease.
What causes periodontal disease? How is it treated? Can it be prevented? Learn the answers to these questions and more about one of the most common oral health conditions.
Causes of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection caused by plaque bacteria that builds up on the teeth. The following can increase your risk:
- Inadequate oral hygiene. When you don’t adequately clean your teeth your risk of developing periodontal disease increases.
- Lack of dental care. Missing dental appointments or avoiding the dentist increases your risk of developing periodontal disease and allows it to progress due to lack of treatment.
- Smoking. Smoking or use of tobacco products increase your risk of periodontal disease by reducing the blood flow to your gums.
- Diabetes and Autoimmune Diseases. People with diabetes and autoimmune disorders are at a higher risk of periodontal disease due to the body's compromised defenses against infection.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is treated in a variety of ways depending on the level of progression. Treatment may include:
- Deep cleaning. A deep cleaning of the teeth involves scaling and root planing. Scaling removes plaque and calculus from the roots of your teeth and root planing smooths the root surface for improved gum attachment.
- Periodontal maintenance. Regular deep cleaning appointments may be necessary to keep periodontal disease under control. Periodontal maintenance schedules are determined by the patient’s individual needs.
- Periodontal surgery. As periodontal disease progresses it can damage the support structures for the teeth, including the jaw. Periodontal surgery reshapes damaged jaw bone to stop the progression of the infection. Soft tissue treatment for recession may also be applied.
Preventing Periodontal Disease
- Brush and floss your teeth. The best defense against periodontal disease is brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day to remove plaque.
- Go to the dentist regularly. Going to the dentist every 6 months for dental cleanings and exams reduces your risk of developing periodontal disease and promotes early detection for easier treatment.
- Quit smoking/tobacco use. Smoking and tobacco use are linked to a variety of health issues besides just periodontal disease. Quitting will improve both your oral health and overall wellness.
- Properly manage diabetes. If you have diabetes or are at a high risk, work closely with your doctor to keep your blood sugar levels under control. This not only reduces your risk of periodontal disease, but will improve many aspects of your general health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Disease
Can periodontal disease be resolved?
The more advanced the periodontal infection becomes, the more difficult it is to cure. This is why early detection is so important, because the infection can be eliminated before it reaches the advanced stages.
Why should I see a periodontist for treatment?
If you have periodontal disease that has progressed beyond the early stages, it is wise to see a periodontist. Periodontists specialize in the treatment of conditions affecting the support structures for the teeth, especially periodontal disease and the resulting damage.
Why Choose Progressive Periodontics & Implant Dentistry?
If you have struggled with chronic periodontal disease and the resulting damage, Progressive Periodontics & Implant Dentistry can restore your oral health. We provide judgment free periodontal care that is gentle and effective.
Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.