What is Periodontal Gum Disease

Periodontal Gum Disease Treatment by Dental Experts in Fort Saskatchewan, AB

Understanding Periodontal Gum Disease

Your oral health is directly linked to your overall health. Oral health conditions, such as periodontal gum disease, can have lasting effects that compromise more than just the integrity of your teeth and gums. Cornerstone Dental Centre in Fort Saskatchewan, AB, is dedicated to educating our patients on how to prevent, diagnose, and treat gum disease to promote optimal health for our patients.

What Is Periodontal Gum Disease?

Periodontal gum disease is a severe oral health condition that begins as an accumulation of plaque around the gum line. When this excessive plaque is not addressed with preventative treatment, it transforms into tartar that damages the gums. When a dental professional doesn’t intervene, periodontal gum disease progresses, leading to gum deterioration and, in advanced stages, bone and/or tooth loss.

Early Stages of Gum Disease

Periodontal gum disease is commonly preceded by a condition known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is caused by plaque buildup, leading to a bacterial infection inside the gum tissue. Gingivitis causes inflamed, red, or bleeding gums. When left untreated, gingivitis travels into the gum pockets, making it more challenging to alleviate, which sparks the transition into periodontal gum disease.

Periodontal Gum Disease Symptoms

It’s essential to understand the symptoms of periodontal gum disease to be able to pursue early intervention the moment you detect an abnormality in your oral health. Common periodontal gum disease symptoms include:

• Bleeding and/or red gums
• Inflamed or swollen gums
• Receding gum line
• Persistent bad breath
• Sensitivity
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Pus around the gums
• Pain or discomfort

Types of Periodontal Gum Disease

There are four primary types of periodontal gum disease. Some types of periodontal gum disease derive from poor oral health. In contrast, other forms are subsequent to various medical conditions.

Chronic Periodontitis

Chronic periodontitis is the most common form of periodontal gum disease. With chronic periodontitis, inflammation develops within the gum tissue, resulting in receding gums and deep pockets. This type of gum disease is characterised by prolonged detachment of the teeth and gums, with occasional periods of rapid progression.

Aggressive Periodontitis

Aggressive periodontitis is a type of periodontal gum disease that develops in patients who are otherwise in optimal health. With aggressive periodontitis, gum detachment happens more rapidly, leading to premature bone destruction.

Necrotizing Periodontitis

Necrotizing periodontitis is commonly seen in patients who suffer from various systemic conditions, including immunosuppression, malnutrition, or HIV. Necrotizing periodontitis is characterised by the necrosis process that occurs, also known as tissue death. This process happens in the periodontal ligament, gingival tissues, and alveolar bone.

Periodontitis as a Result of Systemic Disease

Periodontitis, as a result of systemic disease, typically begins developing when a patient is young. This type of periodontal gum disease is often linked to other medical conditions, such as respiratory disease, heart disease, and diabetes.

Periodontal Gum Disease Treatment

Depending on the stage of a patient’s periodontal gum disease, various non-surgical and surgical treatment plans are available. A dental professional will determine the most effective course of action based on the patient’s jaw, teeth, and gum health.

Scaling & Root Planning

For early-stage periodontal disease, scaling and root planning are common forms of treatment. This process involves removing the bacteria, plaque, and tartar surrounding the gum line and teeth to alleviate the infection. The gum pockets are then thoroughly cleaned, and antibiotics or prescription mouthwash may be prescribed for further healing.

Tissue Regeneration

For more progressed cases of periodontal gum disease, tissue regeneration may be recommended. This periodontal gum disease treatment is used for patients who have experienced deterioration of the gum tissues and/or jawbone. The procedure includes grafting to trigger the body’s regeneration process.

Surgical Procedures

Periodontal gum disease treatment may include pocket elimination surgery. During this procedure, the pockets that rest between the gums and teeth are reduced to alleviate infection and curb the progression of the disease. Additionally, jawbone surgery may be recommended to remove indentations in the bone that harbor harmful bacteria.

Restorative Dentistry

Periodontal gum disease can result in tooth loss. Tooth loss compromises the appearance and function of one’s smile, making it challenging to speak or eat comfortably. Patients may pursue restorative dentistry treatments, such as dental implants, to restore function. Depending on the severity of the jawbone, tissue regeneration may be a prerequisite for dental implants.

Contact Cornerstone Dental Centre

Protect your smile by prioritizing your oral health with Cornerstone Dental Centre. A healthy smile begins with preventative dental care and routine cleanings that combat plaque buildup. Contact our trusted dental professionals today to schedule your examination and cleaning.