Periodontitis

Healthy gum tissue is an important requirement for the proper fit of crowns or any necessary dental work.

What Is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is untreated, inflamed gums that destroy bone and ligament fibers that hold teeth in place.

Symptoms and Causes

Symptoms are gums that bleed easily and pull away from teeth; persistent bad breath; pus; and loose partial dentures or teeth. Causes are poor oral care, bacterial plaque (on gums and tongue), poor nutrition, hormonal changes, stress, suppressed immune systems, diabetes, smoking, chronic fatigue, dry mouth, or teeth grinding.

Treatment

Cleaning safely removes plaque, calculus (layers of unremoved plaque), and toxins above and below the gum tissue on the root surfaces. Toothbrushes do not clean between teeth. Calculus can be removed safely only by dental instruments. When infection is eliminated, the gums can shrink, tighten, and heal. Treatment requires 2 or 4 visits (to treat ½ or ¼ of the mouth at a time, allowing you to chew food on the other side). To reduce discomfort, we offer pre-treatment oral sedatives, nitrous oxide, headphones, pillows and blankets, local anesthetic, and use ultra-sonic instruments to gently remove plaque, toxins, and calculus.

Periodontal Maintenance

Teeth cleanings every three to four months maintains the remaining bone support. Plaque left under gum tissue can initiate more infection. If there is no improvement, we may refer you to a periodontist who specializes in gum disorders. The best defenses are a daily, thorough, home-care program to remove plaque from teeth and tongue, and regular dental visits. Our hygienists will tell you about new products and research developments.