Gum disease or periodontal disease and caries is caused by Dental Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria. Plaque formation on the surface of teeth is a continuous process but if it is not cleaned it could cause gums to become inflamed and detach from the teeth thereby leading to create a pocket. Pockets around the teeth act like reservoirs of bacteria could cause gum disease, lead to bone and tooth loss.
Gingivitis is the earliest and reversible stage of periodontal disease. The term gingivitis is used when only the soft tissue is involved. Early signs of gingivitis include redness, swelling, or inflammation around the gumline. Contributing factors may include dry mouth (due to medications or medical conditions), braces, mouth-breathing, and smoking.
Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults. Periodontitis is the later stage of the disease marked by the breakdown of structures that surround and support the teeth. These supporting structures include the alveolar jaw bone, soft tissue components like gingiva and periodontal ligament fibers which anchor the teeth in the socket. Bone that has been resorbed due to gum disease will not grow back, aggressive treatment and impeccable home care will keep it from getting worse. Though the main cause of gum disease is lack of oral hygiene, contributing factors include heavy smoking, diabetes other metabolic diseases.
Diagnosis of periodontal disease is based on clinical examination for periodontal pockets, calculus (tartar) below the gumline, x-rays used to evaluate bone level around your teeth.
Gingivitis is easily prevented with a good professional cleaning, followed by regular brushing, flossing, and checkups. Proper home care to remove the plaque on a daily basis and professional cleanings every 6 months will restore the gums back to good health. We will work with you to help keep your gums healthy.
Periodontitis and advanced periodontitis will require more aggressive treatment.
Scaling and root planing also commonly known as Deep Cleaning or SRP is recommended
to treat periodontal disease. It is used for cases with moderate perio pockets (range
between 4-7mm). For patients with deep pockets (more than 7mm perio pockets) Periodontal
Flap surgeries are recommended and typically done by Periodontist (gum specialist).
Scaling and Root Planing consists of two parts. Scaling is removal of all the plaque
and calculus (tartar) above and below the gumline, making sure to clean all the
way down to the bottom of the pocket. The second part is Root Planing, which is
smoothing out the teeth roots to help gums to reattach to your teeth. Scaling and
root planing may take more than one visit to complete and may require a local anesthetic.