Learn More About Periodontal Disease

Over 50% of American adults have gum disease – an infection below the gum line. Gum disease is linked to several health problems – from heart disease, stroke, diabetes and pre-term babies – but only a small percentage of these adults get the treatment they need.  Traditional gum disease treatment options involve cutting the gum tissue or extracting the teeth.

Most often caused by plaque and tartar build-up, periodontal disease is progressive and is split into two major stages known as:

• Gingivitis – in its first and milder phase, gingivitis only affects the gums and is generally indicated by swelling, inflammation, or bleeding red gums during brushing or flossing your teeth.

Luckily, if treated early enough, this earlier stage of gum disease can be reversed.

• Periodontitis – This more destructive phase of periodontal disease can jeopardize your gum health and even your jawbone structure. When the accumulation of bacteria along the base of your gum line occurs, your immune system responds by tackling the build-up, slowly but surely eating away any gum tissue or bone in its pathway. The more gum tissue and bone structure that is lost, the greater the complications, which can include tooth loss, infected abscesses, and other serious health problems such as heart disease and gastrointestinal issues.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease:

• Gumline recession
• Bleeding gums
• Loose teeth
• Pus between teeth and gums
• Halitosis (chronic bad breath)
• Gangrene (decayed dental pulp)
• Overall health deterioration

What Causes Gum Disease?

Plaque is one of the most common causes of gum disease. However, there are other potential reasons why people become prone to the disease. Risk factors that may increase your chances of gum disease include:

• Tobacco and alcohol use
• Genetics
• Systemic diseases
• Pregnancy
• Certain medications and drugs such as cancer therapy medication, oral contraceptives, steroidal drugs, and anti-epileptic prescriptions

How is Periodontal Disease Treated?

Our competent team at Petaluma Periodontics is committed to helping and treating every one of our patients with tooth loss prevention and improvement of their overall oral health. Whatever level of periodontal disease you find yourself dealing with, our compassionate and professional staff will work tirelessly to aid in repairing your gums and supporting tissues and bone structure.

The type of services for periodontal treatment provided at our office includes; 

• Non-surgical periodontal therapy
• Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP)
• Pocket Reduction Surgery
• Gum Grafting
• and for loose teeth unable to be saved, we also offer dental extraction and implants.