What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a condition where bacteria that live on your tooth surface cause an inflammatory process in the gums and bone support around teeth. The word ‘Periodontal’ directly means per = around; odont = tooth. The bacteria are found as plaque or calculus (tartar). Both tartar and plaque start as a slimy, soft white film of bacteria that reside on the tooth, eventually developing into a hardened form after a certain period. When the sticky material remains continuously glued onto teeth for an extended time, it gets hard and is termed Tartar/Bacteria (source). Calculus/tartar that is all around a tooth, above and below the gumline, is more difficult to remove. The presence of these bacterial agents causes gum infection, bone loss, and finally, tooth mobility and loss.
For years, Dr. Nalbandian has been helping patients in the Burbank community battle periodontal disease to achieve better oral health. She makes sure that her patients know what this disease is, why it happens, and how it can affect their organs.
Periodontal Disease Stages
Below are the types of periodontal disease in stages:
- Early stage – Gingivitis: During this stage, patients may notice inflamed and red gums, which might bleed while brushing or flossing. With professional care and good hygiene, gingivitis is a reversible condition.
- Mid-stage disease – Periodontitis: Gingivitis, if left unchecked, will eventually lead to periodontitis. This is a condition where the inflammation begins to affect the bone support around teeth causing teeth to eventually become loose. This is when Dr. Nalbandian will recommend a procedure known as Scaling and Root Planning.
- (SRP) – aka: Deep Cleaning – to clean out all sources of infection. Damage to bone support caused by periodontitis is not typically reversible, but when caught and treated early, further damage and loss of teeth is very preventable.
- Advanced Periodontitis: In the late stages of periodontal disease, patients patients have usually lost a significant amount of bone support causing problems such as tooth mobility and infection. During this stage, patients may need to be referred to a periodontal specialist for further evaluation.
Signs of Gum Disease
It is essential for people to recognize the symptoms of periodontal disease early. Common signs include:
- Swollen, tender, or red gums
- Bleeding gums when flossing or brushing
- A bad taste in the mouth or chronic halitosis (bad breath)
- Receding gums or longer-looking teeth
- Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Shifting or loose teeth
- Changes in bite or fit of dentures
Causes and Risk Factors
- Poor oral hygiene: Prolonged presence of plaque and calculus (tartar) is a key contributor to development of inflammation in supporting tooth structures.
Effects of Smoking and Tobacco Use: Use of tobacco products almost always poses significant risks for periodontal disease. - Genetics: A family history of periodontal (gum) disease increases your risk.
Some medications: Certain types of medication reduce saliva flow, impacting oral health. - Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes such as those that occur during pregnancy can drastically increase your risk for periodontal disease.
Medical conditions: Diabetes and certain autoimmune diseases have a direct impact on the health of our gums.
So What Does This All Mean?
Periodontal disease is a serious condition that needs to be addressed by a dental professional. The earlier a professional is able to intervene the more successful treatment will be and the less permanent damage will be present. If you are anxious about the wellness of your gums, do not hesitate to contact Dr. Nicole G. Nalbandian for a thorough evaluation.
We care about your dental health. Make a reservation for an appointment with Dr. Nalbandian today in order to keep your gums and teeth healthy! Let’s work together to give you a smile that is both beautiful and in good health!
