What if I don't have any symptoms of periodontal disease?
The first stage of gum disease, gingivitis,
often accompanied by little or
discomfort. Sometimes, the only way
detect periodontal disease is through
comprehensive periodontal evaluation!
Additionally, there are many risk factors
that may increase your chances of having
periodontal disease. Even if you think you
don't have any symptoms of periodontal
disease, you may want to see a
periodontist if any of these risk factors
apply to you: tobacco use, diabetes, heart
disease, or family history of periodontal
disease. To determine your risk, take the
AAP's Risk Assessment Test, which can be
found at perio.org.
If you're not ready to see a periodontist, remember to brush your teeth twice every
day, floss once every day, and see your
dental professional every 6 months for a
check-up and cleaning. It is very important
to take care of your teeth even if you don't
have periodontal disease!
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If you have been experiencing
symptoms of periodontal disease,
including red, swollen or tender
gums or other pain in your mouth,
bleeding while brushing your teeth,
persistent bad breath, or a change
in the way your teeth fit together
when you bite, it may be a good
idea to schedule an appointment
with a periodontist. However, you
may be wondering "What exactly is
periodontal disease?" and "Why is
it a good idea to see a periodontist
for treatment options?" These are
common questions, and their
answers are important!.
The word "periodontal" refers to
the gum tissue and bone around
the teeth. Periodontal disease, also
known as gum disease, is caused
by the chronic inflammatory
response to bacteria under the
gums and around the teeth. The
bacteria irritate the gums and
generate an inflammatory response
which over time can break down
and destroy the gums and bone
that support the teeth. When
periodontal disease is lef t
untreated, it is one of the primary
causes of adult tooth loss. Also,
several research studies have
found a relationship between
periodontal disease and other
serious health problems such as
heart disease, diabetes, and
rheumatoid arthritis.
A periodontist is a dentist who
specializes in the prevention,
diagnosis, and treatment of
periodontal disease and other
procedures involving the gums and bone around the teeth, such as the
placement of dental implants. Periodontists are also dentistry's
experts in the treatment of oral
inflammation. Periodontists receive
extensive training in these areas,
including three additional years of
education beyond dental school.
The extra education and wideranging
experience treating gum
disease and inflammation assures
that you are receiving the best
possible care. Periodontists are
also familiar with the latest
techniques for diagnosing and
treating periodontal disease. In
addition, they can perform
cosmetic periodontal procedures to
help you achieve the smile you
desire.
During your first visit, your
periodontist will review your
complete medical and dental
history with you. It is very
important for your periodontist to
know if you are taking any
medications or are being treated
for any other health condition, as it
may affect your periodontal care.
Your gums will be examined to see
if there is any gum line recession,
and your teeth will be checked to
see how they fit together when
you bite. Your periodontist will also
take a small measuring instrument
and place it between your teeth
and gums to determine the depth
of your pockets. X-rays may also
be taken to observe the health of
the bone below your gums. If
treatment is needed, your
periodontist will discuss the course
of action with you.
The American Academy of Periodontology Patient Page is a public service of the AAP and should not be used as a substitute for the care and advice of your personal periodontist. There may be variations in treatment that your periodontist will recommend based on individual facts and cir-cumstances. Call 1-800-FLOSS-EM or visit perio.org for more information on periodontal disease.
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