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Periodontal Disease
Treatments aimed at addressing gum disease and preventing its progression, preserving the health of the gums, and supporting teeth.
Periodontal Disease
Nearly 70% of adults have some form of periodontal disease by age 65, and many experience symptoms much earlier. Nasrin Sadeghi, DMD, Medha Singh, DMD, BDS, MS, and the team are expert periodontal care providers at First Dental Associates in Reading, Massachusetts. The team uses advanced technology to prevent, diagnose, and treat periodontal disease at all stages. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about periodontal treatment.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of your gums, the tissues that provide a stable foundation for your teeth. Also called gum disease, this infection can eat away at your tooth-supporting tissues, including your jawbone, once it spreads. Early intervention is essential to slow the progression of gum disease and reverse the damage it causes.
What are the signs of periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease may not have obvious signs in its early stages. However, over time, gum disease can cause:
- Swollen gums
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Redness
- Visible pockets of pus between the teeth and gums
- Loose teeth
- Shifting teeth
- Bleeding gums
- Tooth loss
- Receding gums
- Tooth Sensitivity
After a comprehensive dental exam that includes digital X-rays, the team can create an individualized periodontal treatment plan to address your needs.
Are there different types of periodontal disease?
The two most common types of periodontal disease are:
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. When caught early, the effects of gingivitis are reversible. Your gums may feel sensitive and bleed when you brush your teeth, but your teeth are still firmly intact.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is an advanced form of periodontal disease that loosens your gums’ grip on your teeth. The condition isn’t reversible, but the team can slow its progression and prevent further damage.
What causes periodontal disease?
Plaque, a sticky type of bacteria, causes periodontal disease. Once plaque penetrates your gumline, it forms small pockets and releases toxins that eat away at your tooth-supporting tissues. Many factors can increase your risk of having periodontal disease, including:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Certain medications
- Genetics
- Tobacco use
- Hormone imbalance
- Poor nutrition
Some medical conditions, like diabetes, can also increase your risk of developing periodontal disease.
How is periodontal disease diagnosed?
A comprehensive dental exam is essential to diagnose gum disease. After assessing your gums, the team uses digital X-rays to view your underlying tissues. They also use a periodontal probe to indicate whether you have pockets of plaque deeper than 3 mm.
What are the treatments for periodontal disease?
The team at First Dental Associates can treat periodontal disease with:
Scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planing is a minimally invasive procedure that involves cleaning out pockets of plaque. After the procedure, the team smooths the roots to reattach your gums to your teeth.
Gum surgery
Advanced gum disease may require gum grafting surgery. This treatment involves taking tissue from one part of your mouth and placing it over areas of recession to protect your tooth roots.
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