Hudson & Woodbery Periodontal Disease

DIAGNOSIS | CAUSES | TREATMENT | REVIEWS

Even if you go to your dentist regularly, you may benefit from an evaluation by a Periodontist who has had three additional years of specialized training in the area of periodontics and dental implants.

Periodontal (gum) disease is an ongoing bacterial infection affecting the gums and bone supporting the teeth. As erosion takes place, periodontal pockets become infected. Symptoms are often mild as destruction takes place. Periodontal disease can affect one or several teeth. If left untreated, this can lead to tooth loss or potential health risks associated with diabetes, heart disease, prosthetic joint replacement, and pregnancy.

 Gum Disease Symptoms & Diagnosis

Periodontal disease can easily go undetected and, often times, causes no discomfort. As a result, it may not be diagnosed until in an advanced stage. Late detection may result in tooth loss.

Warning signs and symptoms:

• Red, swollen, bleeding, tender gums
• Persistent halitosis (bad breath)
• Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating
• Loose gums, receding gums, or gum tissue that appears to be separating from the tooth
• Teeth feeling loose
• Teeth having an elongated appearance
• Pus or exudate from the gum tissue or between teeth
• Sores in the mouth
• Poor fitting partial dentures

Professional Diagnosis

Periodontal (gum) disease is diagnosed by measuring pocket depths and evaluating dental radiographs (x-rays) for bone loss during a comprehensive evaluation.

• An instrument called a probe is used to gently measure the depth around each tooth.
• Deeper pockets determine the stage of periodontal (gum) disease and treatment options.
• Dental radiographs (x-rays) are used to evaluate the bone supporting your teeth.
• Poor levels of bone are a sign of damage caused by periodontal (gum) disease.
• Bone is needed to keep teeth stable and supported.

Causes of Periodontal (Gum) Disease

The main cause of gum disease is bacterial plaque buildup. If not removed, it damages the tissue and bone supporting your teeth. Other contributing factors include:

1. Lack of Dental Care

Inadequate brushing, flossing, and dental visits allow plaque to harden, causing inflammation and bone loss. Professional cleanings are essential.

2. Smoking/Tobacco Use

Smoking reduces blood flow and oxygen, weakening your body’s ability to fight infection. Smokers have a higher risk of gum disease and treatment failure.

3. Diabetes & Systemic Diseases

Diabetes and other conditions weaken the immune system and worsen inflammation, increasing gum disease risk. Managing gum health can help control blood sugar.

4. Genetics

Up to 30% of people may be genetically prone to severe gum disease, even with good oral hygiene.

5. Additional Risk Factors

• Hormones & Pregnancy: Hormonal changes can increase gum sensitivity and risk.

• Medications: Some drugs affect oral health. Keep your dentist updated.

• Grinding/Clenching: Adds stress to gums; a mouthguard may help.

• Stress: Lowers immune response, making it harder to fight infection.

Periodontal (Gum) Disease Treatment

Treatment is customized for each patient to improve gum health and preserve natural teeth.

1. Initial Therapy (Scaling & Root Planing)

This first phase removes plaque and hardened tartar from tooth roots to reduce inflammation.

• Afterward, patients return for re-evaluation.

• If deep pockets or bone loss remain, further treatment may be needed.

2. Pocket Reduction Procedures

If initial therapy isn’t enough, surgical treatment may be recommended.

• Gum and bone are reshaped to reduce pocket depth.

• Bacteria and debris are removed.

• Bone grafts may be used to help regenerate lost bone.

These procedures make it easier to clean teeth and reduce the risk of further damage or tooth loss.

3. Periodontal Maintenance (Cleanings)

Ongoing cleanings every 3 months help manage the disease.

• Bacteria can start causing damage again within 90 days.

• Regular care prevents relapse and helps maintain treatment results.

Note: Periodontal disease cannot be cured, but it can be effectively managed with professional care and good home hygiene.

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