Periodontal FAQs

periodontist is a dentist specially trained to prevent, diagnose and treat diseases involving the soft tissue and the underlying jawbone supporting the teeth. Just like other dental specialists, periodontists undergo two to three years of additional schooling to specialize in the field of periodontology.

Periodontists are trained to place dental implants. They are also equipped to monitor and maintain the implant’s appearance and function. Periodontists are also capable of doing foundational procedures (like covering up exposed root surface) necessary for cosmetic treatments to commence. In addition, periodontists may work closely with general dentists in creating a comprehensive plan for the oral care of patients.

A periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the gum tissue and bones supporting the teeth. Also called gum disease, it usually begins with the bacteria living in the dental plaque causing infection in the gaps between the teeth and gum. When left untreated, the continued plaque buildup and infection result in gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal disease. It is typically characterized by the reddening, swelling and irritation of the gums.

The noted major cause of a periodontal disease is the bacteria in the plaque. Other contributing factors are genetics, smoking, stress and poor nutrition.

A periodontal disease is a progressive disease which is typically painless at the onset. Symptoms become more noticeable when the condition has advanced. The first signs of a possible periodontal disease are red and swollen gums that bleed during brushing and flossing. These symptoms are typically indicative of gingivitis. If the condition worsens, you may develop chronic bad breath and experience frequent gum bleeding. Other symptoms are loose tooth, receding gums, appearance of large spaces between teeth and change in bite (the fit of the upper and lower teeth).

Untreated periodontal disease may lead to tooth and bone loss. These are scenarios you certainly wouldn’t want to confront. Furthermore, delays in treating periodontal disease may mean more expenses as costlier treatment options may be tapped to address the worsened condition.

There are different treatment options available for periodontal disease. These treatments are noted to be gentle and effective. The different periodontal disease treatments offered nowadays include: non-surgical treatment, periodontal surgery, periodontal therapy, dental implants and home care treatments (which include special mouthwash, toothpaste, prescription treatment trays, etc.).

Gum surgery is one of the many procedures involve in treating periodontal disease as well as correcting any damages caused by the disease. Generally, a gum surgery brings about little pain or discomfort to patients.

It depends on your condition. To determine if this treatment is best for you, our periodontists and dental practitioners will conduct a thorough examination first. If the periodontal disease is at its early stages, our periodontists will recommend other non-surgical treatment options.

You may experience a mild discomfort or swelling after the procedure. To ease the pain or discomfort, you may take some medications as prescribed by your periodontist.

Certain cases truly necessitate the use of X-ray. Basically, X-ray images or dental radiographs aid dental practitioners in providing a more accurate diagnosis and better treatment for patients. For example, X-ray images make us aware of decays which are difficult to spot just by conducting a visual examination. In addition, they show us whether teeth are unable to emerge through the gum or if extra teeth are growing.

Suffice it to say, dental radiographs allow us to render the highest quality of service to our patients. Here at 7 Day Dental, we give you the assurance that our pediatric dentists wouldn’t require your child to get an X-ray if it isn’t necessary. Also, should it be needed, safeguards would be in place to minimize your child’s exposure to radiation.

This is the mildest form of periodontal disease. Gingivitis typically causes little to no discomfort. Often the result of poor oral hygiene, it is characterized by red, swollen and bleeding gums. Gingivitis is easily treatable with the help of a periodontist and the observance of good oral home care.

Gingivitis:

This is the mildest form of periodontal disease. Gingivitis typically causes little to no discomfort. Often the result of poor oral hygiene, it is characterized by red, swollen and bleeding gums. Gingivitis is easily treatable with the help of a periodontist and the observance of good oral home care.

Periodontitis:

When gingivitis is not treated, it progresses into periodontitis. This is the severe form of periodontal disease. Periodontitis has different types:

Chronic Periodontitis:

This is the most common form of periodontitis. While it is noted to affect anyone, chronic periodontitis is most common in adults. In this condition, gum tissues (gingiva) recede and pockets are formed. Patients with chronic periodontitis experience progressive loss of tissue and bone attachment. Generally, the bone loss happens slowly; however, periods of rapid deterioration may take place.

Aggressive Periodontitis:

This type of periodontitis is characterized by the rapid loss of tissue attachment and destruction of the bone. It is known as a highly destructive form of periodontitis affecting patients who are otherwise clinically healthy.

Periodontitis as a manifestation of systemic diseases:

As the name suggests, this type of periodontitis is associated with systemic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. It is also known to begin at an early age.

Necrotizing periodontal disease:

This is type of periodontitis involves the necrosis or death of the gingival tissue, alveolar bone and periodontal ligament. It is characterized by foul odor, bleeding and pain. This form of periodontitis is observed in individuals with systemic conditions like malnutrition and HIV infection.

There are those who are lucky enough not to be inflicted with this dental condition. However, this disease is considered one of the most prevalent infections nowadays. In the United States alone, one out of two adults aged 30 and above suffers from periodontal disease. Meanwhile, over 70% of Americans aged 65 and above have periodontitis.

Periodontal disease rarely affects young children. They are also occasionally found in adolescents. Despite these facts, it’s still important to teach your children to practice proper oral care habits. Also, given that genetics play a role in the development of the disease, it’s best to inform your dentist about your family dental health history.