The term “periodontal”means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis and gum disease) is a common inflammatory condition which affects the supporting and surrounding soft tissues of the tooth; also the jawbone itself when in its most advanced stages.
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 lead to 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.
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Types of Periodontal Disease
When left untreated, gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) can spread to below the gum line. When the gums become irritated by the toxins contained in plaque, a chronic inflammatory response causes the body to break down and destroy its own bone and soft tissue. There may be little or no symptoms as periodontal disease causes the teeth to separate from the infected gum tissue. Deepening pockets between the gums and teeth are generally indicative that soft tissue and bone is being destroyed by periodontal disease.
Here are some of the most common types of periodontal disease:
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Chronic periodontitis – Inflammation within supporting tissues cause deep pockets and gum recession. It may appear the teeth are lengthening, but in actuality, the gums (gingiva) are receding. This is the most common form of periodontal disease and is characterized by progressive loss of attachment, interspersed with periods of rapid progression.
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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.
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Necrotizing periodontitis – This form of periodontal disease most often occurs in individuals suffering from systemic conditions such as HIV, immunosuppression and malnutrition. Necrosis (tissue death) occurs in the periodontal ligament, alveolar bone and gingival tissues.
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Periodontitis caused by systemic disease – This form of gum disease often begins at an early age. Medical condition such as respiratory disease, diabetes and heart disease are common cofactors.
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:
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Scaling and root planing – In order to preserve the health of the gum tissue, the bacteria and calculus (tartar) which initially caused the infection, must be removed. The gum pockets will be cleaned and treated with antibiotics as necessary to help alleviate the infection. A prescription mouthwash may be incorporated into daily cleaning routines.
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Tissue regeneration – When the bone and gum tissues have been destroyed, regrowth can be actively encouraged using grafting procedures. A membrane may be inserted into the affected areas to assist in the regeneration process.
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Pocket elimination surgery – Pocket elimination surgery (also known as flap surgery) is a surgical treatment which can be performed to reduce the pocket size between the teeth and gums. Surgery on the jawbone is another option which serves to eliminate indentations in the bone which foster the colonization of bacteria.
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Dental implants – When teeth have been lost due to periodontal disease, the aesthetics and functionality of the mouth can be restored by implanting prosthetic teeth into the jawbone. Tissue regeneration procedures may be required prior to the placement of a dental implant in order to strengthen the bone.
Ask Dr. Schlotz or Team PHD if you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease, periodontal treatment, or dental implants.
*Standard Disclaimer and Patient Information per: Missouri State Board Regulations as pertaining to Teeth Whitening, Cosmetic, Sedation & Implant Dentistry...
All are non-specialty interest areas that require no specific educational training to advertise. Drs. Schlotz and Von Rump are GENERAL DENTISTS and are engaged in the practice of GENERAL DENTISTRY in the State Of Missouri. Thus, they are NOT licensed in the specialties of prosthodontics, orthodontics, periodontics or oral-maxillofacial surgery.
TMJ Treatment is a non-specialty area not recognized by the ADA and requires no specific educational training to advertise.
*Standard Disclaimer and Patient Information Regarding Oral Sedation and Dentistry performed under General Anesthesia (commonly referred to as Sleep Dentistry)
Conscious Sedation is taught as part of post graduate residency programs approved by the ADA. Dr. Wm Schlotz and Von Rump have not completed such an ADA approved residency program.
It is a requirement (set forth by the Missouri Dental Board) that a licensed dentist be further licensed (Division of Professional Registration, State of Missouri) to perform oral sedation (aka Enteral Conscious Sedation) in the state of Missouri. Dr. Schlotz and Team have taken the Mandatory Training and Education for this licensure which includes over 20 hrs of training and education in the area of Oral Sedation and Medical Emergency Management. Dr. Schlotz and Team have also taken a 2nd Non-Mandatory course (of 25 hrs) in Oral Sedation and Emergency Medical Management.
Upon this licensure in the field of Oral Sedation, an "Enteral Conscious Sedation Permit" is thereby issued to licensee. Dr. William J. Schlotz has received certification and has been issued License #2009005253.
PLAZA HEALTH Dentistry has received an ENTERAL CONSCIOUS SEDATION SITE CERTIFICATE issued by the Missouri Dental Board (certificate/license #2009004858).
Dr. Schlotz and Von Rump are not providers of Deep Sedation Dentistry (wherein the treating dentist is also responsible for the deep sedation - commonly referred to as "sleep dentistry").
General Dentistry at PLAZA HEALTH Dentistry is performed under General Anesthesia ONLY in concert with Premier Dental Anesthesiology (Board Certified MDs) as the attending caregivers and physicians of the general anesthesia.
PLAZA HEALTH Dentistry has been issued, by the Missouri Dental Board, a DEEP SEDATION/GENERAL ANESTHESIA SITE CERTIFICATE (#2008025661).