Periodontal disease occurs when plaque and bacteria destroy tissue that anchors teeth in the bone. As the disease progresses, pockets form, which allow more plaque to collect below the gum line. Tooth roots are exposed and become susceptible to decay and sensitive to cold and touch.
Periodontal disease affects 3 out of 4 adults.
Periodontal disease is the greatest cause of adult tooth loss. Periodontal disease left untreated may result in extensive bone destruction and possible tooth loss. If detected in the early stages, periodontal disease can be treated and controlled.
The main goal of treatment is to control infection. The numbers and types of treatment will vary by the degree of the gum disease. Any type of treatment requires that the patient keep up with a good daily care at home.
|
|
Treatment
The hygienist thoroughly removes the deposits through a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. Scaling involves removing the deposits above and below the gum line. A local anesthetic or a no-needle novacaine called oraquix, is usually used so you will be comfortable throughout the procedure. An ultrasonic is used to help vibrate off the deposits and also to rinse out the pockets with a solution that helps remove and kill the bacteria.
Medication is sometimes used with the scaling and root planing. Arestin is an antibiotic that is painless placed under the gum tissue to kill the bacteria and reduce the pocket depth. Depending on the severity of the disease sometimes the dentist will refer you to a gum specialist, periodontist. They may recommend gum surgery to help control the periodontal disease.
|
|