What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by bacteria in the dental plaque surrounding your teeth. If this isn’t properly managed, it can lead to losing a tooth.
Because periodontal disease symptoms are subtle, it’s important to pay attention and catch them early. The most common symptoms include:
- Persistent bad breath
- Deep pockets forming between your teeth and gums
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding gums
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important that you call Dr. Atcha’s office to schedule a consultation before your gum disease advances.
What are the stages of periodontal disease?
The three stages of periodontal disease are:
- Gingivitis: Gum disease can be reversed at this stage through consistent brushing and flossing.
- Periodontitis: The supporting structures holding your teeth in place begin to experience damage.
- Advanced Periodontitis: Your teeth begin to shift, loosen, or fall out because of the destruction of fibers and bone supporting your teeth.
In most cases, gum disease is preventable through the use of brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and using mouthwash daily. In addition, quitting smoking can be a great help.
What are different periodontal treatments?
Periodontal treatment includes both surgical and nonsurgical options to eliminate the bacteria in your gums and prevent tooth loss. Below are some of the most common treatments:
- Gum grafting: This helps to replace lost gum tissue in order to protect your tooth roots.
- Root planing and scaling: This treatment requires Dr. Atcha to deep-clean your teeth and gums to remove plaque and tartar.
- Periodontal laser treatment: If you’re experiencing a significant amount of plaque, laser treatment can help kill the bacteria and improve your gums.
- Crown lengthening surgery: Excess gum and bone tissue are reshaped to expose more of your natural tooth.
- Dental implants: Dr. Atcha uses a small titanium rod to act as the root of your missing tooth. Once the implant fuses to your jaw bone, Dr. Atcha attaches a crown to your implant.
Continuing to get your teeth cleaned along with semi-annual dental exams play a crucial role in preventing gum disease and keeping your teeth healthy for your lifetime.
If you believe you’re experiencing gum disease, then call New Teeth Chicago Dental today, or book your appointment online.