What is Periodontitis? How to treat it?

One main reason why people lose their teeth is undiagnosed gum disease, also called periodontal disease. In fact, almost 90% of all adults had various levels of periodontal (gum) disease at some point in their life.

Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that hold the teeth in place. The infection begins without warning, and during the early stages, it causes gums to become sore and bleed easily, and contribute to bad breath.  As the infection gets severe, the teeth will start to loosen and separate, leading to gradual teeth loss.

Periodontal disease is typically caused by poor dental hygiene that allows plaque to build upon the teeth and harden. However, genetics, too, can contribute to periodontal disease at times. The disease starts with gingivitis, the inflammation of the gums that can happen because of the development of plaque or bacteria that accumulates on the teeth. Though gingivitis is non-destructive, untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is more serious.

Common early warning signs of periodontitis include:

• Swollen gums
• Gums that are pinker or dusky red in appearance
• Gums or a tooth that are too sensitive when touched
• Gums that pull away from your teeth, making them look longer than they used to appear
• Gums that bleed when brushed or flossed
• Teeth that start to feel loose
• Bad breath 

Treatments That Works for Periodontitis

No matter the severity of periodontitis is, our expert dentist at Complete Dental Health can treat it with one, or a combination of, any of the following types of treatments:

Scaling and root planing

This treatment works for people who have a milder case of periodontitis. Scaling and root planning are used to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria through an in-depth cleaning process concentrating on tooth roots.

Laser Treatment

LANAP Laser works better for patients with severe periodontitis. This method encourages the gums to reattach to the tooth and offers a less painful, more successful treatment alternative to conventional surgery. LANAP is the only scientifically research-proven methodology that results in periodontal regeneration, new bone growth, and gum tissue reattachment.

Gum Grafting

For extreme cases of periodontitis that can't be treated with any other methods, a gum graft surgery may be required.  Patients whose gums have receded to the extent that their tooth roots are exposed may need gum grafting to repair gums and solve periodontitis. 

If you suspect that you have any of these symptoms, understand that this is more than just a usual dental problem. Patients with severe periodontitis can have life-threatening health complications, too, including an increased risk for stroke or heart disease. 

Call us and book an appointment with our dentist to have a dental examination.