A Progressive Approach Periodontal disease is an
infection caused by bacterial plaque, a sticky, almost invisible film that forms
24 hours a day on our teeth. If not removed thoroughly by careful brushing and
flossing, it will calcify onto the tooth surface, forming hard deposits similar
to the barnacles growing on the hull of a ship.
These hardened bacterial plaque deposits are called calculus or tartar, which
can form on tooth surfaces within days. They can only be removed with special
instruments during professional cleanings. The toxins released from the
bacterial plaque and tartar will eventually result in gum inflammation, bone
destruction, and ultimately tooth loss. Signs of Gum Disease
There are many signs of gum disease including any of the following:
Evaluating Your Gum Health
During your dental office visit, the dentist or hygienist checks for the
presence of periodontal disease through the use of a small measuring instrument
called a periodontal probe, which is gently inserted between the tooth and gum
tissue. When the gums are healthy, the gum crevice measures between 1-3
millimeters, with gum tissues fitting snugly around each tooth. Healthy gums do
not bleed or hurt during brushing or flossing.
If probing measurements have deepened to 4-5 mm, the periodontal fibers have
been damaged. The pockets formed in the gums allows the accumulation of even
more bacterial plaque and tartar which continues to irritate the gum tissue by
releasing toxins, thus causing further inflammation of gum tissue and bleeding.
Once the periodontal fibers have been destroyed, the adjacent bone will be
attacked -- resulting in bone destruction and loss of tooth support. The Need to Remove Plaque
If plaque is not removed each day, it accumulates and hardens into calculus.
The gums may become puffy and red. There may be no discomfort at this stage but
there is danger. If not treated, the resulting inflammation could destroy
the periodontal fibers that hold the gums tightly against the tooth.
At this stage, scaling and root planing to remove calculus deposits
from tooth surfaces above and below the gum line and smoothing the root
surfaces, can arrest the progression of gum disease. However permanent damage
has taken place and it is unlikely that the gums and bone will be restored to
their previous condition.
The goal of our periodontal maintenance program is to keep periodontal
disease from progressing to advanced stages. When gum pockets reach 6 mm or
more, surgery may become necessary.
Even in advanced periodontitis, the gum tissue often looks as if
everything is normal. Sometimes this causes patients to think that all is
well. But in the depths of the gum pockets, periodontal infection continues
to destroy the supporting structures of the teeth. If gum disease continues
to progress undiagnosed and untreated, this could lead to further inflammation
and infection of gum tissue, tooth decay above and below the gum line,
deterioration of bone surrounding the teeth and eventually, the loss of teeth.
Treating and preventing gum disease brings great health benefits. By
retaining your natural teeth, you can chew more comfortably and enjoy better
digestion. You will keep your healthy smile, a natural asset to your appearance.
Remember to brush, floss, and eat a balanced diet. What are the Stages of
Periodontal Gum Health?
Periodontal disease can be stopped in its tracks - with your
cooperation. Although there are various stages of periodontal disease,
our dental team can help design a treatment and maintenance program that can
effectively meet your needs.
|
|
|