What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue that supports the teeth. It is a chronic infection of the gum tissue that will not resolve on its own. Periodontal disease attacks just below the gum line, where it causes the gum tissue that supports the teeth to break down. As gum tissue is damaged, pockets develop. Generally, the more severe the periodontal disease, the deeper the pocket. When periodontal disease is not treated, the teeth will become loose and need to be extracted.
Your trusted Pasadena, Deer Park Dentist, Dr. Nugent, is ready to give you leading care for the treatment of periodontal disease.
What are the risk factors for periodontal disease?
- Poor oral hygiene
- Not routinely going to the dentist for cleanings
- Smoking
- Chewing tobacco
- Diabetes
- Medications (steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers)
- Poorly contoured bridges
- Crooked teeth
- Defective fillings
- Pregnancy (due to hormone changes)
Here are some suggestions from Dr. Nugent on how you can prevent gum disease.
The Warning Signs of Gum Disease:
The Warning Signs of Gum Diseas- Gums that bleed easily — healthy gums do not bleed!
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Constant bad breath or bad taste in mouth
- Teeth that are loose or separating
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together
- Change in the fit of partial dentures
Did you know that it’s possible and very common, to have periodontal disease and have no symptoms or pain? Only your dentist or hygienist can tell you if you have periodontal disease. Checking to see if you have periodontal disease is done by using a probe (metal ruler) and measuring the pockets around your teeth. Healthy measurements of the pockets are 3mm or less. Pockets of 4mm and greater indicate periodontal disease. Therefore, regular dental checkups are important.
Gum Disease Therapy
When thinking about dental health, the majority of individuals only consider their teeth. However, your gum tissue and jaw bone also significantly contribute to the health of your mouth as a whole. Your teeth are retained by your gum tissue and bone. They consist of delicate fragile tissues. Unfortunately, similar to teeth, gums are also susceptible to infection.
One such infection is gingival disease, also referred to as “periodontal disease.” Plaque, which is composed of harmful microorganisms, is the cause of gum disease. When plaque hardens and calcifies, it transforms into tartar, which irritates and infects the gums, resulting in gum disease.
Gum disease has been linked to smoking, genetics, medications, hormonal fluctuations, and other illnesses. Some individuals are more susceptible to developing gum disease than others. It is also known that gum disease increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Two types of periodontal disease exist: gingivitis and periodontitis. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have either stage of periodontal disease:
- Red and puffy gums
- Gum pain or tenderness
- teeth that are mobile
- teeth look longer due to receding gum tissue
- Chronic bad odors
Scaling and Root Planing: The First Step in Treating Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious infection of the gums that can lead to severe damage if left untreated. When plaque and tartar accumulate on teeth and beneath the gumline, harmful bacteria begin to attack the gums and supporting bone structure. This can result in gum inflammation, bleeding, and eventually tooth and bone loss. One of the most effective ways to address periodontal disease in its early stages is through a procedure called Scaling and Root Planing (SRP).
Why Scaling and Root Planing is the First Treatment for Periodontal Disease
Scaling and Root Planing is considered the first line of defense against periodontal disease because it directly targets the root cause of the infection—bacteria buildup below the gumline. The procedure involves two steps:
- Scaling: The dentist uses specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from both above and below the gumline. This is essential because tartar (hardened plaque) cannot be removed with regular brushing and flossing.
- Root Planing: After scaling, the root surfaces of the teeth are smoothed out. This prevents bacteria from reattaching to these areas and allows the gums to reattach to the teeth, promoting healing.
By removing the irritants (plaque, tartar, and bacteria) that are causing inflammation, Scaling and Root Planing helps restore the gum tissue to a healthier condition, reducing pockets between the teeth and gums and promoting gum healing.
How Scaling and Root Planing Helps Restore Gum Health
One of the primary goals of SRP is to reduce the depth of gum pockets. When gum disease progresses, the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where bacteria thrive. These deep pockets can harbor even more bacteria, leading to further destruction of the supporting bone and tissue. By thoroughly cleaning these areas and smoothing the tooth roots, SRP helps to:
- Reduce gum inflammation and bleeding
- Eliminate deep bacterial pockets
- Allow the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the tooth surface
- Prevent further progression of periodontal disease
In many cases, SRP can halt the progression of periodontal disease, avoiding the need for more invasive treatments like surgery.
The Dangers of Not Treating Periodontal Disease
Failing to address periodontal disease can have serious consequences for your oral health and overall well-being. As the disease progresses, the bacteria can destroy the bone that supports the teeth, leading to tooth mobility and eventual tooth loss. Moreover, advanced periodontal disease has been linked to a range of other health issues, including:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes complications
- Respiratory infections
If left untreated, periodontal disease can progress beyond the point where non-surgical treatments like Scaling and Root Planing are effective. In these cases, more invasive surgical procedures may be required to address the damage.
Take Control of Your Gum Health
If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease, Scaling and Root Planing is a critical first step in restoring your gum health. Don’t wait until the problem worsens—early treatment can prevent further damage and help you maintain a healthy, confident smile. Contact Dr. Michael Nugent’s office today at 713-941-8261 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healthier gums! If you suspect you have periodontal disease, our Pasadena, Texas dental office can help. Our office is located at 3421 Burke Rd Ste A, Pasadena, Texas 77504. Get the best in dental care for you and your family.