Periodontal Disease is an inflammatory and infectious disease affecting the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth. If left untreated it can worsen in time, which may lead to bone loss and premature tooth loss. In the early stages of periodontal disease, your gums may become red or swollen, and may even bleed. In time, your gums separate from your teeth and deep spaces called pockets form. Bacteria then collect in these pockets, and their toxins cause inflammation of the gums which destroys the bone that anchors your teeth.
Periodontal disease develops when a sticky film of bacteria, called plaque, is allowed to build up on the teeth. In most cases, periodontal disease can be prevented with good daily oral hygiene and regular professional care. Plaque that is not removed regularly can harden into a rough porous deposit called tarter or calculus. Tarter and calculus only can be removed when your teeth are professionally cleaned in the dental office.
It is possible to have periodontal disease and have no warning signs. However, if you notice any of the following signs you may have periodontal disease and should call our office immediately.
- Gums that bleed easily
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Loose or separating permanent teeth
- Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- Any change in the fit of partial dentures
Treatment of periodontal disease:
We use state of the art technologies to treat this damaging condition. We will use small scaling devices which will be placed carefully into the pockets to remove the bacterial debris. Lasers, antibiotics and rinses are also included in the therapy. In addition you will be instructed on how to improve your oral hygiene procedures and diet. Smoking is also an extremely negative factor related to periodontal disease and it should be reduced or preferably stopped.
If you suspect that you may be suffering from periodontal disease please contact our office now to schedule a consultation with the dentists at the Center for Contemporary Dentistry.