Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Treatment
How common is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is very common. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) estimates that 47.2% of adults older than 30 have
periodontal disease. This estimate includes the mildest form, which is
gingivitis.
What will happen if I do not get treated for periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is a severe gum disease. Going without treatment often
results in tooth and bone loss as well as other oral and systemic health
conditions, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, some
cancers, and pregnancy complications. Gum disease is best treated when diagnosed
in its early stages.
What are the signs of periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease occurs from inflammation of the gums. This inflammation can
cause bad breath, swollen or red-colored gums, gums that are tender or bleed,
and pain with chewing. Periodontal disease can also affect the teeth, causing
them to become loose, be sensitive, or fit together differently when you bite
down.
What is the order of severity in periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease does not commonly occur suddenly or on its own. Generally,
the disease starts off as gingivitis, then gum disease, then mild to moderate to
severe periodontal disease. When gum disease goes untreated, the disease worsens
and may be irreversible. It is important to get treated as soon as early
symptoms start and continue seeking dental care.
What are the most common treatments for periodontal disease?
Nonsurgical treatments for periodontal disease include a scaling and root planing
procedure and antibiotic medications or prescription mouthwash. Surgical
treatments include flap surgery (or pocket reduction surgery), soft tissue
grafts, bone grafts, guided tissue regeneration, and tissue-stimulating
proteins.