Periodontal Care

Gum disease, or periodontitis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the gum tissue and the bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can cause the gums to separate from the teeth and form pockets where bacteria and plaque can collect. This, in turn, can lead to gum recession and even tooth loss if the problem is not treated early.

Stages of Gum Disease

There are two forms of periodontal disease to watch out for: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a milder form of gum disease that only affects your gums. Treatment is typically necessary when gum disease is caught at this stage. However, sometimes people experience bleeding gums that go away after a day or two without treatment. Regular brushing and flossing can help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

When gum disease is caught at a later stage, it becomes periodontitis and can progress to become more serious. The supporting bone in the jaw can also break down, leading to loose or lost teeth. This is why it’s crucial for your dentist to catch and treat gum disease as early as possible.

What Are Periodontal Pockets?

Periodontal pockets are spaces between the teeth and gums that become deeper due to plaque buildup and gum disease. The gaps can become large enough that they cause discomfort or pain. They may also result in the loss of bone structure around the teeth. If left untreated, this could lead to tooth loss.

Over time, these pockets may become filled with bacteria, causing the tissues to deteriorate. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults, affecting more than 30 percent of American adults over the age of 30. When caught early, the condition is reversible and may be treated with nonsurgical therapies such as scaling and root planing.

If the condition progresses to the point where nonsurgical methods are no longer effective, more invasive treatments, such as a pocket reduction procedure, may be necessary. This procedure involves reshaping gum tissues to eliminate the areas where bacteria is collecting and irritating the gums. Small transplant tissue may also be required to fill the empty spaces caused by bone loss.

How Is Gum Disease Treated?

Your dentist can diagnose gum disease during an oral exam. They will examine your gums, checking for redness, inflammation, and signs of decay around your teeth. They may also take X-rays to check the integrity of your jawbone. If you have gum disease, your dentist may perform deep cleanings to remove the bacteria below the gum line. These cleanings are usually performed twice a year to keep the condition under control.

In addition to professional treatment and good oral hygiene at home, it is also important to avoid unhealthy habits like smoking that can hinder the healing process. Smoking can slow blood flow in the gums, resulting in slower healing. By avoiding tobacco products or other harmful chemicals, patients can help ensure a healthy recovery and maintain their newly restored smiles for years. 

To learn more about our dental services at Cory L. Crouse, DMD LLC, call 808-487-3033 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 99-128 Aiea Heights #603, Aiea, HI 96701.