Checking for Periodontal Disease:During your regular dental exam, your dentist and dental hygienist will examine your mouth for periodontal disease. A dental instrument called a periodontal probe is used to detect breakdown in the gum tissue attachment or if pockets have developed between your gums and teeth. If deep pockets are found and bone has become destroyed, your dentist may recommend periodontal surgery.
Periodontal disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Early and moderate periodontal disease may exhibit few, if any symptoms. Warning signs of advanced gum disease may include red, swollen or bleeding gums; persistent bad breath; permanent teeth that are loose or separating or changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.
Stages of gum disease include:
This is the first stage of periodontal disease. Plaque and toxins cause gum irritation, which makes your gums tender, inflamed and bleeding may be present with brushing, flossing or when examined for periodontal disease.
At this advancing stage, the gums recede further and separate from the tooth. As the gums, bone and periodontal ligament become destroyed, the teeth lose more support. Without treatment, the affected teeth may become very loose and may be lost. Generalized moderate to severe bone loss may be present.
At this advanced stage,
the gums recede further and separate from the tooth. As the gums, bone and periodontal ligament become destroyed, the teeth
lose more support. Without treatment, the affected teeth may become very loose and may be lost. Generalized moderate to
severe bone loss may be present.
Treatment options may include dental procedures, Scaling, Root planing and Oral Irrigation. Treatment depends on the type of periodontal disease and how far the condition has progressed.
Brushing, flossing and having regular professional exams and cleanings are key to preventing the build up of plaque and will help protect against periodontal disease.
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