Periodontal disease is the term that describes the two diseases of the gingiva or gums namely gingivitis or periodontitis. The name of the disease is used for oral health problems associated with a change in gum-affecting bacteria or the adverse effects that are associated with an increase in those bacteria. In most cases, Island Dental Associates can treat gum or periodontal diseases. Practicing proper oral hygiene is the best way to avoid developing these different diseases.

What Causes The Disease?

Our mouths are like landfills in that they contain a lot of bacteria. When you combine that with the mucous and a number of other particles, plaque is continually growing on our teeth. When that plaque is left unchecked and unremoved, it becomes harder and forms tartar that regular brushing cannot eliminate. Once it progress to this stage, only a periodontist can solve the problem. There are a number of common causes which include:

• bad personal habits such as chewing tobacco or smoking
• certain illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, or HIV
• family history of periodontal diseases which could lead to developing gingivitis
• hormonal changes during monthly menstrual cycles, menopause, pregnancy, or puberty
• poor oral hygiene (not brushing or flossing on a regular basis)
• prescription medications including Adalat, Dilantin, Procardia, etc.

What Are The Symptoms?

Both gingivitis and periodontitis have similar symptoms. Unfortunately, as the disease progresses, it does so painlessly. So you may be totally unaware that it is developing. Although the symptoms of periodontal disease are oftentimes subtle in nature, there are certain warning signs to look for including:

• bleeding gums occur whenever you are brushing your teeth and afterwards
• changes occur in how your teeth fit together when biting down and chewing
• deep pockets form between the gums and teeth
• gums become red, swollen, and tender
• halitosis (bad breath) or a persistent bad taste in your mouth
• loosening or shifting of your teeth
• receding gum lines

Even when you don’t see any symptoms, you may be developing gingivitis or periodontitis. Sometimes the symptoms of these diseases are only noticeable around one or two teeth. In any case, you will need to see a dentist or periodontist.

How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?

There are two forms of treatment for periodontal disease – non-surgical and surgical. They are broken down as follows:

Non-surgical procedures:

• Invisalign clear braces
• local antimicrobial treatment
• maintenance
• occlusal adjustment
• occlusal guard
• scaling and root planing

Surgical procedures:

• biopsy
• crown lengthening
• extractions
• extractions with bone grafting
• Frenectomy
• Gingivectomy and Gingivoplasty
• gum contouring esthetics
• immediate implants
• immediate implants with same day tooth
• implants
• implants with bone grafting
• mini implants
• Orthodontic mini screws (implants)
• Osseous
• Osseous with bone grafting
• ridge augmentation
• sinus elevation – Osteotome, lateral window
• soft tissue graft for recession-connective tissue
• soft tissue graft with biologic materials
• soft tissue grafts for Orthodontics

Preventative oral hygiene at home and regular dentist visits are required in order to prevent the development of periodontal disease. Island Dental Associates can treat the two diseases mentioned above and provides a comprehensive line of periodontal services. Call us today to schedule an appointment for an evaluation.