About Periodontal "Gum" Disease

Periodontal disease is most often preceded by gingivitis which is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue. A bacterial infection affects the gums when the toxins contained in plaque begin to irritate and inflame the gum tissues. Once this bacterial infection colonizes in the gum pockets between the teeth, it becomes much more difficult to remove and treat. Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that eventually leads to the destruction of the connective tissue and jawbone. If left untreated, it can cause shifting teeth, loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss.

Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults in the developed world and should always be promptly treated.

Common Causes of Gum Disease

There are genetic and environmental factors involved in the onset of gum disease, and in many cases, the risk of developing periodontitis can be significantly lowered by taking preventative measures.

Here are some of the most common causes of gum disease:

• Poor dental hygiene
• Tobacco use
• Genetic predisposition
• Pregnancy and menopause
• Chronic stress and poor diet
• Diabetes and underlying medical issues
• Grinding teeth
• Medication

Common Signs & Symptoms

It is extremely important to note that periodontal disease can progress without any signs or symptoms such as pain. This is why regular dental checkups are exceptionally important. Described below are some of the most common signs and symptoms of periodontitis.

If you have any of these signs or symptoms, the advice of a general dentist or periodontist should be sought as soon as possible:

• Unexplained bleeding
• Pain, redness or swelling
• Longer-looking teeth
• Bad breath/halitosis
• Loose teeth/change in bite pattern
• Pus

Diagnosing Gum Disease

A periodontal probe (small dental instrument) is gently used to measure the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth and the gums. The depth of a healthy sulcus measures three millimeters or less and does not bleed. The periodontal probe helps indicate if pockets are deeper than three millimeters. As periodontal disease progresses, the pockets usually get deeper.

Your dentist or hygienist will use pocket depths, amount of bleeding, inflammation, tooth mobility, etc., to make a diagnosis that will fall into a category below:

• Gingivitis
• Periodontitis
• Advanced Periodontitis

Treatment for Periodontal Disease

There are many surgical and nonsurgical treatments the periodontist may choose to perform, depending upon the exact condition of the teeth, gums and jawbone. A complete periodontal exam of the mouth will be done before any treatment is performed or recommended.

Here are some of the more common treatments for periodontal disease:

• Scaling and root planing
• Tissue regeneration
• Pocket elimination surgery
• Dental implants

Gum Disease Treatment: Periodontal Deep Cleanings

Initial signs of gum disease, such as puffy soft tissue and bleeding while brushing, should be taken seriously so you can seek minimally invasive, effective care. If any of these issues are present in your smile, visit Adler Dental for gentle gum disease treatment in Manhattan. Dr. Adler and Dr. Moed are proud to have a team that takes a highly gentle approach to caring for patients, especially those scheduled for dental cleanings to correct gum disease.

During root scaling and planing, the area below the gum line is thoroughly cleaned to remove agents of infection, such as debris and bacteria. The roots of your teeth are also smoothed, making it harder for bacteria to re-attach and cause additional irritation. During treatment, we ensure the targeted area is thoroughly numbed for your comfort.

After undergoing a deep cleaning, your gums will have a chance to heal and look and feel healthier. Gum disease treatment is essential in preventing soft tissue recession and adverse effects on teeth and underlying bone.

Healthier Gums through Periodontal Maintenance

After-care is an equal part of the equation in ensuring lasting wellness. Dr. Adler and Dr. Moed use an antibiotic powder, called Arestin, after root scaling and planing, placing the treatment deep into gum pockets to promote improved healing. Arestin remains active for up to a month, effectively neutralizing harmful bacteria and encouraging healthy reattachment of soft tissue to teeth.

Patients who have received gum disease treatment at our Manhattan dental office are encouraged to maintain a more frequent schedule of dental cleanings in the short-term. Instead of visiting once every six months, an exam every three months is recommended to ensure gums remain healthy. After dental health has stabilized, patients can return to their twice-yearly cleaning routine.

Ask our Dentists about Gum Care! We support healthy and strong smiles for a lifetime through comprehensive exams and deep cleanings. If you have questions about root scaling and planing as gum disease treatment, contact Adler Dental today for a consultation. We refer complicated cases to trusted local periodontal specialists and provide on-going preventive treatment in our office.