Periodontal Disease Diagnosis and Treatment

Dr keri with patient

Periodontal Disease Diagnosis And Treatment

The CDC reports that periodontal disease affects nearly half of all U.S. adults over the age of 30. At Agave Dental, we feel that this is a serious concern, and we are dedicated to carefully screening patients for periodontal disease. Catching the disease in its earliest stages helps to prevent this chronic condition from progressing, saving you a great deal of time, expense, and discomfort.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease (often called gum disease) is a spectrum of conditions affecting the gum tissues and support structures of the teeth. If left untreated, it can cause pain, bleeding, and even tooth loss. Ongoing research also continues to support the relationship of oral health to whole-body health. Recent studies have linked periodontal disease to a number of serious systemic conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, respiratory disease, and even some types of cancer. Additionally, pregnant women with periodontal disease are more likely to experience problems during their pregnancy and give birth to babies with a lower birth weight

Doctor with Dummy Crown

Levels Of Periodontal Disease

Using pocket depth data, amount of bleeding, inflammation, and tooth mobility, we will make a diagnosis that will fall into a category below:

  • Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. Plaque and the toxic by-products it produces irritate the gums, causing them to be tender, inflamed, and more likely to bleed.
  • Periodontitis – If plaque is allowed to harden, it becomes calculus, also called tartar. As calculus and plaque continue to form, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth. Deeper pockets develop between the gums and teeth and become filled with bacteria and pus. The gums become very irritated and inflamed and bleed easily. This stage of the disease may also include slight to moderate bone loss. We can determine the amount of bone loss around the teeth by evaluating your x-rays. To learn more about digital x-rays at Agave Dental, click here.
  • Advanced Periodontitis – At this stage, the gums, bone, and periodontal ligament continue to be destroyed, and soon, they become unable to support the teeth. If left untreated, the affected teeth will become very loose and may be lost (periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in U.S. adults). There may also be moderate to severe bone loss at this point.

Treating Periodontal Disease

If we do find that you have periodontal disease – at any stage – don’t worry; you won’t be left on your own. Dr. Hamann is skilled in a range of periodontal treatment options and will discuss your condition and your treatment options with you, outlining her recommendations and discussing likely outcomes.

In advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to restore the gum tissue. If we believe that this is the most appropriate treatment in your case, we’ll discuss your options and help you make the decision that is right for you.