Understanding & Arresting Gum Disease
Up to 80 percent of the population unknowingly has some form of
gum disease. Characterized by a persistent bacterial infection
surrounding one tooth or several teeth, gum disease causes little
discomfort and produces few obvious symptoms in the early stages.
When periodontal disease is not treated, it will spread and compromise
gums, teeth, bone, and it can lead to heart disease and strokes,
as well as diabetes and pregnancy complications.
Who is at risk?
Any of the following conditions greatly exacerbate the risk of
gum disease: smoking, tobacco use, hormone fluctuations, stress,
some medications, bruxism, diabetes, poor nutrition, HIV, and
any disease resulting in immunosuppression., heredity, and poor
oral hygiene. Even patients who practice good oral homecare routines
can get gum disease. Gums irritated by bacteria can recede from
the teeth, creating deep pockets where more bacteria can hide
and flourish.
Treating Gum Disease
Early on, when redness, swelling, and bleeding are the only symptoms,
we can treat and reverse gum disease non-surgically. Regular check
ups greatly increase your potential for early detection and conservative
treatment. Generally, treatment will include careful, individualized
instruction regarding the most effective means of brushing and
flossing at home. This strategy is sometimes accompanied by professional
scaling or careful scraping of all affected tooth surfaces, gum
pocket irrigation, and even local antibiotic placement in areas
of significant irritation. Often, patients experience immediate
improvement. If, however, symptoms don't improve significantly,
you may require surgical treatment.
Surgical Treatments
If gum disease progresses without intervention, a patient may
need surgery to remediate the disease and restore the mouth to
good oral health. Typically, periodontists may perform four surgical
treatments: pocket depth reduction, bone or tissue regeneration,
crown lengthening, and/or soft tissue grafts. All of these procedures
may improve your chances of keeping your teeth for life.
If you have further questions about gum disease and current treatments,
please contact our office for a consultation.
