U.S.Dental ( also known as Tufts Dental )
Dr.Gina Sohn- Tufts Graduate
U.S Dentist in Seoul / Licensed in MA, CT, NJ
http://www.drginasohn.com
Tel 02-553-7512 / Overseas +822-553-7512
Periodontal disease, often called gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums and bones that surround the teeth causing the gums and bones to shrink away from the teeth. The bacteria will cause the bone around the teeth to degenerate. As a result teeth will loosen and possibly fall out.
Most people are not even aware that they have it. In the early stages it is painless and goes unnoticed.
Then, how do you know if you may have periodontal disease? Do you have bad breath? Do your gums bleed or are they red and swollen? These are some common symptoms, but you may not be experiencing any symptoms at all. This is why it is important to have routine check-ups to screen for gum disease.
The good news is periodontal disease is a treatable disease. If detected early the effects can be reversed and the bone may stop receding. A tiny ruler called a probe is used to measure the “pocket depths” around each tooth. In a healthy mouth the “pocket depths” are usually between 1-3 millimeters. In an individual with periodontal disease the pocket depths start to reach 4-5 mm or greater.
Treatment varies depending on the severity of the disease.
For mild cases, deep cleaning ( scaling and root planning) is performed. Scaling means scraping off the tarter (calculus) from above and below the gum line. Root planning gets rid of the buildup on the roots of the teeth where the germs gather, removing the bacteria colonies that contribute to the disease. Additionally, the doctor may recommend placing an antibiotic down into the tissue surrounding each tooth that has periodontal involvement.
In case of severe, long-term periodontal disease, it may be necessary to have gum surgery.
The prognosis for mild to moderate periodontal disease is generally good. With diligent care, including brushing, flossing and follow-up cleanings as recommended by your dentist, it is possible to keep your teeth for a lifetime.
