What Is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?
Periodontal disease is a progressive inflammatory condition affecting the gums and supporting structures around the teeth. Learn about its causes, common forms, and treatment options.
The term “periodontal” means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease, also known as periodontitis or gum disease, is a common inflammatory condition that affects the supporting and surrounding soft tissues of the tooth. In its most advanced stages, it can also affect the jawbone.
Periodontal disease is most often preceded by gingivitis, a bacterial infection of the gum tissue. The toxins contained in plaque irritate and inflame the gums. Once this bacterial infection colonizes in the pockets between the teeth and gums, it becomes much more difficult to remove and treat.
Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that can destroy connective tissue and jawbone. If left untreated, it can cause shifting teeth, loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss. It is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults in the developed world and should always be promptly treated.
Types of Periodontal Disease
When left untreated, gingivitis can spread below the gumline. A chronic inflammatory response may cause the body to break down its own bone and soft tissue. There may be few or no symptoms while the disease causes the teeth to separate from infected gum tissue. Deepening pockets between the gums and teeth generally indicate that soft tissue and bone are being destroyed.
Chronic periodontitis — Inflammation within the supporting tissues causes deep pockets and gum recession. The teeth may appear longer, but the gums are actually receding. This is the most common form of periodontal disease and is characterized by progressive loss of attachment, sometimes interrupted by periods of rapid progression.
Aggressive periodontitis — This form of gum disease occurs in an otherwise clinically healthy individual. It is characterized by rapid loss of gum attachment, chronic bone destruction, and familial aggregation.
Necrotizing periodontitis — This form most often occurs in people affected by systemic conditions such as HIV, immunosuppression, and malnutrition. Tissue death can occur in the periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, and gingival tissues.
Periodontitis caused by systemic disease — This form often begins at an early age. Conditions such as respiratory disease, diabetes, and heart disease are common cofactors.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
There are many surgical and nonsurgical treatments a periodontist may use depending on the condition of the teeth, gums, and jawbone. A complete periodontal examination will be performed before any treatment is recommended.
Scaling and root planing — To preserve gum health, the bacteria and calculus that caused the infection must be removed. Gum pockets are cleaned and may be treated with antibiotics. A prescription mouthwash may also be incorporated into daily cleaning routines.
Tissue regeneration — When bone and gum tissues have been destroyed, regrowth may be encouraged through grafting procedures. A membrane may be placed in the affected area to assist with regeneration.
Pocket elimination surgery — Also known as flap surgery, this treatment can reduce the pocket size between the teeth and gums. Jawbone surgery is another option for eliminating indentations that encourage bacterial growth.
Dental implants — When teeth have been lost because of periodontal disease, prosthetic teeth supported by dental implants may restore appearance and function. Tissue-regeneration procedures may be needed before implant placement to strengthen the bone.
Please contact our office if you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease, periodontal treatment, or dental implants.