Treatment for Periodontitis

Periodontitis occurs when an inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) attacks the ligaments and bony structures that support the teeth. If treatment is not received, periodontitis can eventually lead to tooth loss. Treating periodontal disease halts the progress of the disease by getting rid of the infection and maintaining the supporting structures of the teeth. Establishing proper brushing and flossing habits and regular dental visits help to combat further progression of the disease.

Facts

• According to the World Health Organization in 2005, periodontal disease affected 10 to 15 percent of the adult population worldwide. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIH Publication No. 02-1142,2006) has estimated that 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of periodontal disease. Men are more likely to have periodontal disease than women.

Effects

• Plaque is a sticky film of sugar, starches and bacteria that forms on the teeth. If it is not removed within two to three days by brushing and flossing, it hardens and turns into tartar. Tartar needs professional cleaning to be removed. If it is not removed, gingivitis can develop. The gums become red, sore, swollen and may bleed. Eventually the gums recede from the teeth, forming gum pockets; as the pockets get deeper, they fill with bacteria and pus. If the infection worsens, it will damage the bony supporting structure of the teeth and eventually lead to the loss of teeth.

Non-surgical Treatment Options

• Treatment options for periodontitis depend on the degree of damage to the gums, teeth, and supporting bone structures. Non-surgical options include scaling and root planing.

  Scaling is the removal of plaque (tartar) from the teeth and gums. This may be done by a periodontist or dental hygienist in the early stages of the disease. Root planing is the removal of bacteria from the gums to prevent further deepening of gum pockets, allowing the gums to heal.

  Antibiotics may be prescribed orally or topically to combat infection.

Surgical Treatment Options

• There are several surgical treatment options. Flap surgery allows better cleaning of the gum pockets. Soft tissue grafts stop the gums from receding from the teeth. Bone grafts add support to the teeth after bone and other supporting structures have been destroyed. Guided tissue regeneration is another approach to stimulating and promoting the growth of bone in order to support the teeth.

Prevention/Solution

• To avoid periodontitis, practice proper dental hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes and flossing once per day, best done before bedtime. Visit your dentist for a check-up and cleaning every six months.