Gum Disease understanding And Treatment At Burtonsville
"Periodontal" pertains to the region surrounding the tooth. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease or periodontitis, is a prevalent inflammatory disorder that impacts the soft tissues that support and encase the tooth. In severe cases, it can even affect the jawbone.
Gingivitis, a bacterial infection that affects the gum tissue, often precedes periodontal disease. The toxins in plaque cause irritation and inflammation in the gums, leading to a bacterial infection. Once this infection takes hold in the gum pockets between the teeth, it becomes difficult to eliminate and treat. As time passes, periodontal disease advances, damaging the connective tissue and jawbone. If not treated, it can lead to shifting teeth, loose teeth, and ultimately tooth loss.
In developed countries, periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults and should be addressed immediately.
Different Kinds of Gum Disease
If gingivitis, a mild form of gum inflammation, is not treated, it can worsen and impact the area beneath the gum line. The toxins present in plaque can agitate the gums, triggering a persistent inflammatory response that leads the body to destroy its own bone and soft tissue. Periodontal disease might not exhibit many symptoms, but it can result in the teeth detaching from the infected gum tissue. The formation of deeper pockets between the gums and teeth typically indicates that periodontal disease is causing the destruction of soft tissue and bone.
The following are some common types of periodontal disease:
Chronic periodontitis: It is a condition where inflammation occurs in the tissues that support the teeth, resulting in deep pockets and receding gums. This may give the illusion of teeth lengthening, but it's actually the gums that are shrinking. This is the most common type of periodontal disease, typically marked by a slow loss of attachment, punctuated by sporadic periods of swift progression.
Aggressive Periodontitis: This form of gum disease is typically found in individuals who are generally in good health. It is marked by a swift deterioration of gum attachment, persistent bone damage, and it often has a familial predisposition.
Necrotizing Periodontitis: This type of periodontal disease mainly impacts people suffering from systemic conditions like HIV, immunosuppression, and malnutrition. It results in tissue death (necrosis) in the periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, and gingival tissues.
Systemic Disease-Induced Periodontitis: This form of gum disease typically begins early in life and is linked to health issues such as respiratory disease, diabetes, and heart disease.
Treatment for Gum Disease
A periodontist has the option to select from numerous surgical and nonsurgical treatments, depending on the state of the teeth, gums, and jawbone. A comprehensive periodontal examination will be carried out before any treatment is suggested or undertaken.
Here are a few typical treatments for periodontal disease:
Scaling and Root Planing: This process eliminates bacteria and tartar to maintain the health of the gum tissue. Antibiotics might be administered to address any infection, and a prescribed mouthwash could be suggested for everyday cleansing.
Tissue Regeneration: Grafting procedures can stimulate the regrowth of damaged bone and gum tissues. A membrane might be used to assist in the regeneration process.
Surgery for Pocket Elimination: This procedure, also referred to as flap surgery, is designed to decrease the size of pockets that form between the teeth and gums. Surgery on the jawbone may also be considered to eradicate bacterial colonization.
Dental Implants: Artificial teeth can be embedded into the jawbone to enhance both appearance and function. Procedures to regenerate tissue might be required to fortify the bone prior to the insertion of the implant.
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