A periodontal condition, also known as gum disease, occurs when the gums become inflamed. This inflammation is usually due to plaque and tartar buildup, which can become trapped underneath the gum line. If left untreated, this condition can eventually lead to tooth loss.

What is Periodontal Medicine?

Periodontal medicine is a specialty area focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of periodontal (gum) disease. This specialized field involves both medical and dental professionals working together to create a patient’s individualized treatment plan and to make patients more comfortable during any necessary procedures. The field of periodontics also encompasses restorative procedures that aim to restore gum tissue and supporting bone structure to a healthy state, as well as proper maintenance techniques to prevent future issues from occurring.

Dentists who have received special training in this field are referred to as periodontists; these specialists are able to perform a variety of non-surgical treatments designed to help fight gum disease and restore a patient’s health. Dental hygienists and assistants may also receive specialized training in plaque removal and other non-surgical procedures. Treatments include root planing and scaling to remove bacteria from beneath the gum line, bone grafting to add or rebuild lost tissue, soft tissue grafting to repair damage caused by periodontal disease, antibiotics to treat infection, and surgery for severe cases of periodontitis. Non-surgical treatment options are usually preferred whenever possible as they typically provide the healthiest and most long-lasting results for patients.

Gum disease is an infection of the gums caused by poor oral hygiene that allows plaque to build up between the teeth. Over time the plaque hardens into tartar which irritates the gums and causes inflammation. If left untreated, the inflammation and infection will slowly destroy both the soft and hard tissues supporting the teeth and may eventually lead to tooth loss. While anyone can develop gum disease, certain risk factors may make individuals more susceptible to developing the disease including smoking, diabetes, pregnancy, old age, genetics, stress, clenching/grinding, orthodontic treatment, and poor diet. The best ways to combat gum disease are to practice

Who should see a Periodontist?

If you have diabetes, gum disease or bone loss, you are at increased risk of developing adult periodontitis. Sometimes called the “silent disease” because symptoms can be mild or even nonexistent, this disease can wreak havoc on your health if left untreated. Make an appointment to see a periodontist for an evaluation and treatment plan to keep your gums healthy for life!

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What treatments are available?

The term “periodontal” refers to the tissues that surround and support your teeth. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that affects this supportive tissue. It can lead to serious inflammation and tooth loss if not treated. Treatment will depend on how severe your infection is; however, non-surgical therapy is usually recommended first. Options for non-surgical therapy include antibiotics and scaling and root planing. In this procedure, we will remove any tartar or calculus from above and below the gum line and smooth down the root surfaces of your tooth. This will reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth and help your gums heal. We may also recommend more frequent cleanings to help control the infection and prevent reinfection.