3101 W Ridge Rd BLDG C, Greece, NY 14626
Understanding Gum Disease & Its Impact
Periodontal disease — also called gum disease — is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and the bone supporting your teeth. It often begins silently with mild inflammation, but if left untreated, it can progress to gum recession, bone loss, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. Early detection and treatment at Greece Family Dentistry and Implantology can protect your smile and overall oral health.
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How Gum Disease Begins and Progresses
Periodontal disease starts when plaque, a sticky bacterial film, accumulates on teeth. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which fuels bacterial growth and gum irritation. This triggers inflammation, which may progress over time:
- Gingivitis (Early Stage): Gums are red, swollen, and may bleed. Often reversible with professional care and proper oral hygiene.
- Periodontitis (Advanced Stage): Infection spreads below the gumline, forming pockets and destroying gum tissue and bone. This can lead to loose or shifting teeth.
Routine dental exams are essential for catching disease before permanent damage occurs.
Types of Periodontal Disease
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress below the gumline, causing the body to break down bone and soft tissue supporting the teeth. Deepening pockets between the gums and teeth are a sign of advancing periodontal disease, which may occur with little or no symptoms.
Common types include:
- Chronic Periodontitis: The most common form, characterized by gradual gum recession, deep pockets, and progressive attachment loss.
- Aggressive Periodontitis: Rapid destruction of gums and bone in otherwise healthy individuals, often with a familial pattern.
- Necrotizing Periodontitis: Severe tissue death affecting gums, bone, and periodontal ligament, often seen in immunocompromised patients.
- Periodontitis Related to Systemic Disease: Linked to conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or respiratory illness, sometimes appearing early in life.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
Treatment depends on disease severity and may include non-surgical and surgical options, all guided by a thorough periodontal exam.
Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning to remove bacteria and tartar from below the gumline, sometimes combined with antibiotics or prescription mouthwash.
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Tissue Regeneration: Procedures like grafting or membranes to restore lost bone and gum tissue.
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Pocket Elimination Surgery: Surgical reduction of deep gum pockets to prevent bacterial buildup; may include jawbone reshaping.
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Dental Implants: Replacement of teeth lost to periodontal disease, often following tissue regeneration to strengthen the jawbone.
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Take Action for Your Gum Health
Periodontal disease is common but manageable. With early diagnosis, effective treatment, and regular maintenance, you can stop disease progression and protect your smile.
Take control of your gum health — schedule your periodontal evaluation today!
Schedule Your Periodontal Evaluation
