Periodontal Disease - Tacoma
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is an infection in the gums and tissue surrounding teeth. If not treated, the disease can lead to tooth loss. The disease happens when improper brushing and flossing do not sweep away bacteria. When bacteria sticks to the teeth’s surface, it forms into plaque. Plaque is a mix of bacteria and saliva, which forms into a hard outer layer. The bacteria grows and deteriorates the teeth and gums.
Eventually, the disease can spread through the gums and into the bone. The disease, known as periodontitis, is a stage of periodontal disease. It is a common yet avoidable problem. If caught early, periodontitis is manageable with the help of a dental care team.
According to the CDC, 47.2% of adults have periodontal disease. If you have periodontal disease, you are not alone, and treatment is available.
Periodontitis and Gum Disease
A good sign that you might have periodontitis is when you notice a sticky residue on your teeth that does not come off. The sticky residue is known as calculus or tartar, and it bonds to your teeth and into your gums. The problem with periodontitis is it can spread into a serious gum disease that affects the rest of your body and leads to other health problems. Be sure to tell your dentist right away if you recognize tartar or calculus on your teeth.
Four Stages to Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease which is reversible and can heal if diagnosed early enough. Gingivitis does not affect the bones and is only present in the gums. The problem is that gingivitis is not painful, so it is hard to detect. However, bad breath and swollen gums are signs that you need to see your dentist to determine if you have gingivitis.
Slight Periodontal Disease is the second phase of periodontal disease. The stage is irreversible, but your dentist can control its progression and manage it. The disease has spread to the bone, and there are methods your dentist will use to deep clean the gums and affected bone area.
Moderate Periodontal Disease
The third stage of periodontal disease has spread to the bones and the bloodstream. Symptoms include bleeding and pain around the teeth. Gum tissue falls or recesses away from the tooth. The body as a whole may begin to feel the effects of the infection.
Advanced Periodontal Disease
Advanced Periodontal Disease is the fourth and most advanced stage of periodontal disease. The gums have receded, and the supportive tissue around your teeth has deteriorated. This final stage of the disease causes tooth loss.
Risk Factors
Taking care of your teeth is the #1 way to avoid periodontal and gum disease. Brushing and flossing reduce your risk of decay immensely.
- Smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco – Keep smoke, nicotine, and other harmful substances away from your gums, especially if you are in treatment for periodontal infections. You will get better faster.
- Hormonal changes in women – Although you can’t keep hormonal changes from developing, you can be aware that gums might be sensitive and need extra care.
- Diabetes – Gum disease can form easier in patients with diabetes.
- Sensitive immune systems – Patients with immune disorders or those in treatment for cancer or HIV are at risk for gum disease.
- Treatments and medications reduce saliva production, which increases the growth of inflammation. Tell your dentist what prescriptions you are taking.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
Initially, the first step for treatment is to control the infectious growth. The staff at 32 Pearls will check the pockets around your teeth and perform a deep cleaning treatment to remove any trace of bacteria. Next, we use periodontal scaling and root planing, which removes plaque and calculus. We take readings of your pockets and rinse your roots with an antimicrobial.
If you have concerns about your therapy, we are always happy to explain everything you need to know, including the different stages of periodontal disease and how we will take care of you.
If tooth loss has occurred, there are several great options for restorative dentistry.
Next, the patient will learn new and improved ways to increase home care, plus continue regularly scheduled office cleanings. The staff at 32 Pearls will assist you in every way possible to get back to healthy habits and a confident smile you will love.
32 Pearls is #1 for identifying and treating periodontal disease. Call today to schedule your appointment. (206) 322-8862,