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Periodontal
Disease (Gum disease)
If you
have been told you have periodontal disease,
you're not alone. An estimated 80 percent of
American adults currently have some form of the
disease.
Periodontal diseases range from simple gum
inflammation to serious disease that results in
major damage to the soft tissue and bone that
support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth are
lost.
Symptoms are often not noticeable until the
disease is advanced. They include:
Deep
Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planning)
The plaque and calculus is removed through a
deep cleaning method called scaling and root
planning. Scaling means scraping off the tartar
from above and below the gum line. Root planning
gets rid of rough spots on the tooth root where
the germs gather, and helps remove bacteria that
contribute to the disease.
Flap Surgery
Surgery might be necessary if inflammation and
deep pockets remain following treatment with
deep cleaning and medications. Dr. Sanchez may
perform flap surgery to remove tartar deposits
in deep pockets or to reduce the periodontal
pocket and make it easier for the patient,
dentist, and hygienist to keep the area clean.
This common surgery involves lifting the gums
back and removing the tartar. The gums are then
sutured back in place so that the tissue fits
snugly around the tooth again.
The Progress of Periodontal Disease
-
Healthy gingiva (gum
tissue) and bone anchor
teeth firmly in place.
-
Gingivitis develops as toxins in plaque
irritate the gums, making them red, tender,
swollen, and likely to bleed easily.
-
Periodontitis occurs when toxins destroy the
tissues that anchor teeth in the bone. As
gums detach from teeth, pockets form and
fill with plaque. Tooth roots are exposed
and become susceptible to decay and
sensitive to cold and touch.
-
Advanced periodontitis is present when the
teeth continue to lose their attachment and
the supporting bone is destroyed. Unless
treated, the affected teeth frequently
become loose and may fall out or require
removal by a dentist.
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