• Periodontal Care • Periodontal Disease • Treatment Methods • Osseous Surgery • Gum Grafting • Crown Lengthening • Bone Regeneration • Cosmetic Periodontal Surgery • Oral Pathology

PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums and supporting bone, which gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. Dental plaque and immune response are the primary causes of gum disease in genetically susceptible individuals. Bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons, which irritate the gums. They may cause them to turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth, causing pockets (spaces) to form. Plaque can also harden into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar). This can occur both above and below the gum line. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss. However, don’t be fooled. With periodontal disease, bleeding, redness and swelling do not have to be present. Further, pain is usually not associated with periodontal disease. This disease damages the teeth, gum and jawbone of more than 80% of Americans by age 45.

Stages of Periodontal disease

Under normal conditions, the tissue is tight around the tooth and when measured with a periodontal probe (a ruler), it will measure no more than 3 mm deep. The roots of teeth are approximately 10 to 11 mm long.

1. Gingivitis
   Gingivitis is a reversible condition of the gums. They become red and swollen and may bleed easily. In this stage no bone has been destroyed. Gum pockets are due to inflammation only.
   
   
2. Early Periodontitis
   Pockets forms - In this stage bone loss occurs. As much as 10% of the supporting bone is lost. Pocket depths are up to 5 mm deep.
   
   
3. Moderate Periodontitis
   Bone loss occurs from 10 to 50% of the root surface. Pocket depths can be up to 6 mm deep.
   
   
4. Advanced Periodontitis
   Bone loss is greater than 50% and pocket depths are 7 mm or greater. Periodontal disease can be treated with a number of modalities, including scaling and root planning, chemotherapeutic agents, medications and gum surgery.