Diagnosis and Prevention of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection of the supporting structures of the tooth (gums and underlying bone) that, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss.
In the initial form of the disease, “Gingivitis,” redness, swelling and bleeding of the gums are usually noticeable. This condition is caused by poor oral hygiene and is usually reversible with good home care and routine professional cleanings.
If left untreated, Gingivitis can lead to “Periodontitis,” where the underlying tissues are destroyed. Pocket formation (the separation of gum from tooth) along with bone loss are the first signs of Periodontitis. Once it progresses to this stage, there really is no cure, other than a strict need for regular professional cleanings.
Treatment of Periodontal Disease
Treatment options may vary for periodontal disease, depending on the extent and severity of the tissue destruction. Usually it is divided into non-surgical and surgical treatment, both preformed in our Apopka dental office. The main objective of periodontal therapy is to eliminate all the disease causing bacteria and regenerate the supporting structures of the affected teeth.
Non-surgical pocket therapy, also called scaling and root planing, is the initial procedure that aids in reducing the signs of infection. Typically this involves the removal of plaque and calcified bacteria (calculus) below the gum, under local anesthetic. The result of this initial phase is noticeable improvement in the clinical condition. This includes a significant reduction in swelling and bleeding, along with the shrinking of the gums, allowing for a reduction in pocket depth.
Surgical pocket therapy is indicated in more advanced cases where scaling and root planing are not sufficient. If it is possible to eradicate all the bacteria colonizing the deep pockets, visual surgical access is then necessary. This includes the separation of the gum from the tooth under local anesthetic and the removal of the disease causing bacteria. The infected tissue is then removed, before securing back the gums with sutures.
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What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Bacterial Plaque is the principal cause of gum disease. It is a thin, sticky, colorless film that forms around teeth. Risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, stress, hormonal imbalance and genetic predisposition play a major role in the extent and severity of the disease.
Please visit our Apopka office or call us at (407) 889-9682 for any questions regarding periodontal treatment.