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Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Treatment

Q.      Why can’t I see my regular dentist for all my cleaning appointments?
A.       During your supportive periodontal care appointment, our focus and emphasis is on the supporting structures (the gum tissue and bone). The focus and emphasis of your dentist is on the teeth themselves.
                       

Q.      Why are there spaces between my teeth after pocket reduction treatment?
A.      Before treatment gums were swollen and infected. After treatment the gums shrink back down, are now healthy and are at the bone levels, where they were when you were healthy.

Q.      What is Periodontal Disease?
A.      Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, appears most frequently in middle-life, but can occur any age. The main cause of periodontal disease is bacterial plaque. This disease increases without the proper at-home oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
The bacteria in plaque causes an infection that affects the supporting gums and  bone of  the teeth. The gums become red, swollen and can easily bleed. This is the mildest form of periodontal disease often called Gingivitis. This is caused by inadequate oral hygiene and there is little or no discomfort. However, with professional treatment and good oral at-home care, this can be reversed. As the disease progresses and is left untreated it develops into Periodontitis. This is when the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. The bacteria in plaque produce toxins or poisons that irritate the gums. This in turn causes the breaking down and the destroying of the tissues and bone that support the teeth. When this happens, it forms pockets that fill with more plaque. If the pockets are left untreated, the affected teeth can become loose and eventually will be lost.
Although plaque may be the cause of periodontal disease, other risk factors such as heredity, stress, tobacco use, diabetes, and general health conditions can influence periodontal disease.