Q & A on Periodontal Disease
What does periodontal disease mean?
Periodontal disease is a condition where the structure of the gums and bone supporting the teeth are gradually destroyed.
What is the cause of periodontal disease?
The main cause of gum disease is plaque, a sticky, colorless film of bacteria, that constantly forms on your teeth. Other factors also contribute to the problem such as: hereditary factors, stress, diabetes, smoking, important hormonal disturbances (pregnancy, menopause).
How does periodontal disease progress?
If the plaque is not removed properly, it hardens into a rough, porous deposit called calculus, or tartar. Toxins (or poisons) produced by the bacteria in the plaque irritate the gums and can make them red, tender, swollen and more likely to bleed.
As the disease progresses, the toxins trigger the destruction of the supporting tissues around the teeth, forming pockets that fill with more plaque. The bone that supports the teeth may be permanently damaged. Unless treated, the affected teeth can become loose and eventually lost.
Is it frequent?
Yes, periodontal disease is the major cause of about 70 percent of adult tooth loss, affecting three out of four persons at some point in life.
Does periodontal disease hurt?
No, very rarely. In most situations, even a severe condition will cause no signs or symptoms (bleeding gums for some people). Occasional episodes of abscesses may happen in advanced cases.
How can I reduce the risks of periodontal disease?
Conscientious removal of plaque by brushing, flossing, stopping tobacco usage, regular professional cleanings, can minimize the risks of gum disease. Regular screenings are also very important to stop any problems at an early stage.
What are the periodontal treatments?
In the earlier stages of gum disease, most of the treatment involves scaling and root planing, which means removing plaque and calculus in the pockets around the teeth and smoothing the root surfaces. In most cases of early gum disease, scaling, root planing and proper daily brushing and flossing are all that are required for a satisfactory result.
More advanced cases may require surgical treatment. The type of surgical treatment needed will depend on the type of gum problem and extent of your condition, as well as the general status of your mouth.
When is surgery beneficial?
When the pockets under the gums are too deep, the toothbrush and floss cannot reach the plaque and tartar that forms. These pockets may become so deep that even the your dentist or hygienist cannot clean them properly. The periodontist may then decide that surgery is needed to remove the plaque and tartar buildup under the gums.
After freezing the area, the periodontist will smooth root surfaces, reduce the pockets (where bacteria are hiding) by repositioning the gum tissues and giving a shape that will be easier to keep clean. Regeneration material can be placed in the treated area to enhance the healing.
What happens if there are no treatments?
In the vast majority of situations, without intervention, the bone/gum support of the teeth will continue to break down and the involved teeth will be lost.
Will I need other surgeries?
If you have gum problems, it means that your body is susceptible to these problems and you may experience "bouts" of periodontal disease. The control of all chronic diseases requires a continuous monitoring by your dentist and/or periodontist. In the majority of cases, if you follow the periodontist's recommendations, you will not need to be retreated.
What can I do to prevent relapses?
Periodontal disease will certainly resurface if you do not follow a maintenance program and if you smoke again. It is up to you to prevent any relapse by correctly brushing, flossing and using any other oral hygiene appliance that was recommended for you, every day. Furthermore, a recall program with your dentist/hygienist/periodontist 2-4 times per year, is essential.
What are the benefits of periodontal treatment?
Periodontal treatment is an investment in your health. Treating periodontal problems will help you maintain a healthy mouth and help prevent tooth loss. With your natural teeth, you can eat more easily and digest your food better. In fact, with prompt treatment, proper home care and regular dental visits, the great majority of patients can keep their teeth for a lifetime.