Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal therapy aims at treating an infection of the gums and bones (called gum diease or pyorrhea) which, if left untreated, could lead to the complete loss of the bone support of the teeth and result in their falling out. Scaling and root planing is the first step. This involves the removal of bacterial toxins from the roots of teeth.

The following article gives more information:

Periodontal Disease: Save Your Smile

 At one time, a commonly held belief was that with age came a gradual loss of teeth. This is not the case. People can keep their own teeth all their lives if proper care is taken at an early age. Most people, however, think they are doing everything necessary to prevent tooth loss by brushing and keeping their mouths free of cavities. This may not be enough, however, as periodontal disease causes most tooth loss.

Periodontal disease is very common and affects 90-100% of the population at some time during their lives. According to the World Health Organization, "Periodontal disease is one of the most widespread diseases of mankind. No area of the world is free from it. In most areas, it has a high prevalence affecting in some degree half of the child population and almost the entire adult population."

Gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontitis (pockets and bone loss) are caused by bacterial plaque (germs on the teeth). If plaque builds up on teeth, a swelling or enlargement of the gum tissue protecting the teeth and bone occurs. When a space opens forming a pocket, even more bacteria and tartar can form around the teeth causing the loss of bone and supporting structures of the teeth.

Some people are more susceptible to periodontal disease than others, depending on their genetic predisposition or overall health. Thyroid imbalances, diabetes, anemia, and other health conditions can predispose people to the disease and possible early tooth loss. The key to avoidance is preventive dentistry.

Fortunately, periodontal disease is treatable if caught in the early stages. A thorough examination by your general dentist or periodontist (gum specialist) can help preserve your smile. In order to prevent gum disease, the following steps are required:

• Visit Your Dentist Regularly
  Your dentist will assure you that your gums are checked for recession or bone loss. One or more visits may be necessary to help control the plaque and tartar that can build on your teeth.
  
  
• Improve Personal Oral Hygiene
  It is important to learn how to care for your teeth. Your dentist and his or her staff can educate you on hard to treat areas, especially where there are missing teeth, bridges, tipped teeth or recession.
  
  
• Remove Tartar Regularly
  If your gums are swollen, inflamed or bleed easily, they are not healthy. No matter how correctly you brush your teeth some tartar will form below the gum line. Your dentist can spot this hidden tartar and remove it before problems occur. If the tartar is deep enough and cannot be removed completely, gum surgery may be necessary to correct any future damage.
  
  
• Correct Other Problems First
  For some people, gum trouble may be caused by ill fitting bridges, old or broken fillings or gaps where teeth are missing. Taking care of these problems can further reduce your chances of disease.

Periodontal disease has now been linked to heart disease.

By taking these simple steps, periodontal disease can be prevented. Make sure you see your dentist regularly.
More Information

This article was compiled by Dr. Fredric Kudish, member, CSDA Public Education Council, and reviewed by the Connecticut Society of Periodontists.