What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?

Procedures
What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?
Periodontal disease is most often preceded by gingivitis which is a bacterial caused inflammation of the gum tissue. A bacterial infection affects the gums when the toxins contained in plaque begin to irritate and inflame the gum tissues. Once this bacterial infection colonizes in the gum pockets between the teeth, it becomes much more difficult to remove and treat. Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that eventually leads to the destruction of the connective tissue between the tooth and bone and eventually the jawbone. If left untreated, it can lead to shifting teeth, loose teeth and eventually tooth loss.
Procedures
Types of Periodontal Disease
There are many surgical and nonsurgical treatments Dr. Escarsega may choose to perform, depending upon the exact condition of the teeth, gums and jawbone. There are different types and stages of Periodontal Disease. Dr. Escarsega will evaluate with you and discuss options. A complete periodontal exam of the mouth will be done before any treatment is performed or recommended.
In order to preserve the health of the gum tissue, the bacteria and calculus (tartar) which initially caused the infection, must be removed. The gum pockets will be cleaned and treated with antibiotics as necessary to help alleviate the infection. A prescription mouthwash may be incorporated into daily cleaning routines.
When the bone and gum tissues have been destroyed, regrowth can be actively encouraged using grafting procedures. A membrane may be inserted into the affected areas to assist in the regeneration process.
Pocket elimination surgery (also known as flap surgery) is a surgical treatment which can be performed to reduce the pocket size between the teeth and gums. Surgery on the jawbone is another option which serves to eliminate indentations in the bone which foster the colonization of bacteria.
When teeth have been lost due to periodontal disease, the aesthetics and functionality of the mouth can be restored by implanting prosthetic teeth into the jawbone. Tissue regeneration procedures may be required prior to the placement of a dental implant in order to strengthen the bone. Periodontal disease should be controlled prior to placement of implants.
Procedures
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
When left untreated, gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) can spread to below the gum line. When the gums become irritated by the toxins contained in plaque, a chronic inflammatory response causes the body to break down and destroy its own bone and soft tissue. There may be little or no symptoms as periodontal disease causes the teeth to separate from the infected gum tissue. Deepening pockets between the gums and teeth are generally indicative that soft tissue and bone is being destroyed by periodontal disease. There are different types and stages of Periodontal Disease. Dr. Escarsega will evaluate with you and discuss treatment options.
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