What is periodontal (gum) disease?

Perio = around, dontal = tooth. So periodontal disease is a disease process in tissues surrounding and supporting the tooth.

What is the Hygienist's role when treating gum disease?

After confirmation of gum disease by a dentist, the hygienist can do procedures to actually treat the active disease.

What are the signs of periodontal (gum) disease?

Bleeding gums when brushing and/or flossing is the primary visible sign; however, the absence of visible bleeding gums doesn t mean absence of gum disease. Only careful examination by a dental professional can confirm gum health.

How often should I visit the Periodontist?

Recommended frequency of visits is dependent on gum health and effectiveness of patient's home care. Average frequency is about every 6 months but some patients need to be seen every 3 months.

Who is a periodontist?

A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in only treating gum diseases.

How is periodontal disease detected?

Periodontal disease is dectected by visual exam along with x-ray s of tooth roots and measuring gum pocket depth around each tooth.

Who gets periodontal disease?

Anyone can get periodontal disease. It is relatively rare in young children and early teens. It begins to show up more after puberty.

What do I do if I think I have gum disease?

The best thing to do is to consult a dentist for a complete periodontal evaluation.

What treatments are available for gum disease?

The primary treatment is to remove the debris and toxins that have accumulated around the teeth using a treatment called scaling and root planing. Gum surgery may be involved in more serious cases.

Why should I worry about gum disease?

Left untreated, gum disease can and WILL cause tooth loss.

Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush my teeth?

No, just like it is not normal for your arms or hands to bleed when you was them.

Why does a person need to see their hygienist regularly?

Regular visits can help maintain healthy gums and catch beginning gum disease when it is more easily treated.

Is there a relationship between tobacco use and periodontal disease?

Tobacco does not cause disease but when disease is present, tobacco use can make the disease process worse and harder to treat successfully.

What are pockets?

Spaces between gum and tooth that harbors bacteria and debris that cause gum disease.

Could my periodontal disease be genetic?

In some cases, yes.

Can I pass my periodontal disease to others?

In a word, no.