What is periodontal disease?

 

Periodontal disease can be an aggressive or a chronic infection of the gums and bone that surround and support your teeth.  The infection is caused by bacteria that collects on your teeth and in pockets between your teeth and your gums.  If left untreated, the infection progresses to cause gums abscesses, tooth loosening, and eventually tooth loss.

 

How is periodontal disease treated?

 

Daily home care on your part is the most important aspect for longterm success of periodontal therapy.  Research has shown that treatment may be divided into three stages. 

 

Stage 1 involves the removal of bacteria and tartar (calculus) from under the gumline.  This process is called root planing and is usually performed under local anesthetic.  It is sometimes beneficial to place you on certain types of antibiotics or anti-microbial rinses during this stage of treatment.  A bite adjustment may be necessary in some cases.

 

Stage 2 involves the surgical correction of defects or "craters" in the bone surrounding your teeth and additional removal of bacteria and calculus on tooth roots.  These defects are created by the infection and their correction is essential for effective home care.  Guided tissue regeneration is a procedure that will rebuild some of the tissues and bone that were lost due to periodontal disease.

 

Stage 3 is the longest and most important phase of treatment.  It is the supportive periodontal therapy phase and involves a regular recall schedule tailored especially for your needs.