Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth.
Periodontal diseases are classified according to the disease severity. Gingivitis and Periodontitis are the two major stages of Periodontal Disease. Gingivitis is a milder and reversible form of periodontal disease that only affects the gums. Gingivitis may lead to more serious, destructive forms of periodontal disease called Periodontitis.
There are many factors that increase the risk of developing Periodontal Disease. Some of them include the following:
- Tobacco smoking or chewing
- Systemic diseases such as diabetes
- Some types of medication such as steroids, some types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers and oral contraceptives
- Bridges that no longer fit properly
- Crooked teeth
- Fillings that have become defective
- Pregnancy or use of oral contraceptives
Periodontal Disease can present without any warning signs. However, these are some of the possible warning signs:
- Gums that bleed easily
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
- Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- Any change in the fit of partial dentures
A periodontal screening is done to determine if a more Comprehensive Exam is needed. During this Comprehensive Exam Periodontal Probing is done to map the gingival tissue.
After this Exam a diagnosis can be made.
The Diagnosis determines the course of treatment.
Initial Periodontal treatment consists of scaling and root planing.
After healing and reevaluation, maintenance procedures are performed at 3, 4, or 6 month intervals.
If indicated, further treatment including surgical procedures may be recommended.