The term “periodontal”means “around the tooth.”  Periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis and gum disease) is a common inflammatory condition which affects the supporting and surrounding soft tissues of the tooth; also the jawbone itself when in its advanced stages.  

Periodontal disease is most often preceded by gingivitis which is a bacterial infection of the 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 is a progressive condition that eventually leads to the destruction of the connective tissue and jawbone.  If left untreated, it can lead to shifting teeth, loose teeth and eventually tooth loss along with substantial increases in you risk for diabetes, heart disease, stroke and other systemic diseases.

Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults in the developed world and should always be promptly treated.

Types of Periodontal Disease

When left untreated, gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) can spread to below the gum line.  When the gums become irritated by the toxins contained in plaque, a chronic inflammatory response causes the body to break down and destroy its own bone and soft tissue.  There may be little or no symptoms as periodontal disease causes the teeth to separate from the infected gum tissue.  Deepening pockets between the gums and teeth are  indicative that soft tissue and bone is being destroyed. Early diagnosis is critical.

Here are some of the most common types of periodontal disease:

• Chronic periodontitis – Inflammation within supporting tissues cause deep pockets and gum recession.  It may appear the teeth are lengthening, but in actuality, the gums (gingiva) are receding.  This is the most common form of periodontal disease and is characterized by progressive loss of attachment, interspersed with periods of rapid progression.
  
  
• Aggressive periodontitis – This form of gum disease can occur in an otherwise clinically healthy individual.  It is characterized by rapid loss of gum attachment, rapid bone destruction and resistance to treatment.
  
  
• Necrotizing periodontitis – This form of periodontal disease most often occurs in individuals suffering from stress or systemic conditions such as HIV, immunosuppression and malnutrition.  Necrosis (tissue death) occurs in the periodontal ligament, alveolar bone and gingival tissues.
  
  
• Periodontitis caused by systemic disease – This form of gum disease often begins at an early age.  Medical condition such as  diabetes  are common cofactors.

Treatment for Periodontal Disease

        The first step in treating periodontal disease is a thorough diagnosis. 

         Here are some of the more common treatments for periodontal disease:

• Scaling and root planing – In order to preserve the health of the gum tissue, the bacteria and calculus (tartar) which initially caused the infection, must be removed.  The gum pockets will be cleaned and treated with antibiotics or laser as necessary to help alleviate the infection.  A prescription mouthwash may be incorporated into daily cleaning routines.
• Pocket elimination surgery – Pocket elimination surgery (also known as flap surgery) is a surgical treatment which can be performed to reduce the pocket size between the teeth and gums.  
• Dental implants – When teeth have been lost due to periodontal disease, the aesthetics and functionality of the mouth can be restored by implanting prosthetic teeth into the jawbone. 
• Ask us if you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease, periodontal treatment, or dental implants.