The term "periodontal" refers to the area surrounding the tooth. Periodontal disease, also known as periodontitis and gum disease, is a common inflammatory condition that affects the soft tissues supporting and surrounding the tooth. In advanced stages, it can also impact the jawbone itself.
Gingivitis, a bacterial infection of the gum tissue, often occurs before periodontal disease. The toxins in plaque irritate and inflame the gums, leading to a bacterial infection. Once this infection settles in the gum pockets between the teeth, it becomes difficult to remove and treat. As time passes, periodontal disease progresses and harms the connective tissue and jawbone. If left untreated, it can cause teeth to shift, become loose, and eventually result in tooth loss.
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in developed countries and should be addressed promptly.
Types Of Gum Disease
If left untreated, gingivitis, a mild gum inflammation, can worsen and affect the area below the gum line. Plaque toxins can irritate the gums, triggering a chronic inflammatory response that leads to the deterioration of bone and soft tissue. Periodontal disease may not exhibit many symptoms, but it can cause teeth to detach from infected gum tissue. The presence of deepening pockets between the gums and teeth often indicates the destruction of soft tissue and bone caused by periodontal disease.
Numerous types of periodontal disease are frequently observed.
- Chronic periodontitis: This type of periodontal disease is characterized by inflammation in the supporting tissues, leading to deep pockets and gum recession. The gums may appear to be receding, making it seem like the teeth are getting longer. It is the most common form of periodontal disease and is characterized by a gradual loss of attachment, with occasional periods of rapid progression.
- Aggressive periodontitis:This form of gum disease occurs in individuals who are otherwise clinically healthy. It is characterized by a rapid loss of gum attachment, chronic bone destruction, and a tendency to run in families.
- Necrotizing periodontitis:This type of periodontal disease primarily affects individuals with systemic conditions such as HIV, immunosuppression, and malnutrition. It causes tissue death (necrosis) in the periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, and gingival tissues.
- Periodontitis caused by systemic disease:This gum disease often starts at a young age and is associated with medical conditions like respiratory disease, diabetes, and heart disease.
To prevent further harm to the gums, bone, and teeth, it is crucial to acknowledge and treat periodontal disease.
Treatment For Periodontal Disease
- The periodontist has a range of surgical and nonsurgical treatments to choose from, depending on the condition of the teeth, gums, and jawbone. A complete periodontal exam will be conducted before any treatment is recommended or performed.
- Common treatments for periodontal disease include:
- Scaling and root planing: This procedure is used to remove bacteria and tartar in order to maintain gum tissue health. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat any infection, and a prescription mouthwash may be suggested for daily cleaning.
- Tissue regeneration: In cases where bone and gum tissues are damaged, grafting procedures can stimulate regrowth. A membrane may be inserted to assist in the regeneration process.
- Pocket elimination surgery: Also known as flap surgery, this surgical treatment reduces the size of pockets between the teeth and gums. Jawbone surgery may also be considered to eliminate bacterial colonization.
- Dental implants: Prosthetic teeth can be implanted into the jawbone to restore both aesthetics and functionality. Tissue regeneration procedures may be required to strengthen the bone before implant placement.
