Calgary, AB dentist, Dentist in Calgary, AB,

Periodontal Disease

DIAGNOSIS:

Periodontal disease is diagnosed using a periodontal probe and x-rays. The periodontal probe is used to measure the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth an the gums. A healthy sulcus depth measures 3mm or less and does not bleed. The periodontal probe helps indicate if pockets are deeper than 3mm. As periodontal disease progresses, the pocket depths also get deeper. We check for pocket depths, bleeding, inflammation, tooth mobility to make a diagnosis.

Gingivitis: This is the first stage of periodontal disease. Plaque and the toxins it creates irritate the gums, which makes them tender and inflamed. They will also start to bleed.

Early/Moderate/Advanced Periodontitis: As the plaque hardens into calculus (tartar) and build up, the gums begin to recede from the teeth. Deeper pockets form between the gums and teeth and become filled with bacteria and pus. The gums become very irritated, inflamed and bleed easily. Depending on the amount of bone loss, you will fall either into the early/moderate/advanced categories. If left untreated, the teeth continue to lose more support as the gums, bone and periodontal ligament continue to be destroyed. The affected teeth will become very loose and may be lost.

TREATMENT:

Periodontal treatment depends on the type and severity of the disease.

If the disease is caught during the early stages of gingivitis, and there is minimal damage, one to two cleanings will be recommended along with instructions on improving oral hygiene at home.

If the disease has progressed into more advanced periodontal disease, scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) will be done. This may take up to 4 cleaning appointments. We may also numb the area that we will working on that appointment. Calculus, plaque, toxins are removed from above and below the gum line (scaling) and rough spots on root surfaces are made smooth (root planing). Scaling and root planing helps the gums to heal and pockets to shrink. Medications, special medicated mouth rinses and an electric tooth brush may be suggested to help control the infection and speed up healing.

If the pockets do not heal after the scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce the pocket depths. The dentist may also recommend that you see a periodontist (gums and supporting bone specialist).

MAINTENANCE:

Once your scaling and root planing has been completed, your dentist and dental dental hygienist will recommend regular periodontal cleanings every 3 to 4 months. The pocket depths will be checked to ensure they are healthy along with removing plaque and calculus that is difficult to remove on a daily basis.