Advanced Periodontitis
Understanding Advanced Periodontal Disease
Advanced periodontitis is a severe stage of gum disease that’s caused by a bacterial infection that attacks the gum tissues and can lead to tooth loss when not treated in its early stages. When periodontitis is left untreated for an extended period, it can progress to advanced periodontitis, which can cause significant damage to the gums, teeth, and supporting bones.
Our Auburn dentist recommends immediate treatment when you notice any symptoms of periodontitis to prevent further damage from occurring. To schedule an appointment, contact our dental office by calling (260) 357-2380 today.
What Is Advanced Periodontitis?
Advanced periodontitis occurs when the bone and tissues that support the teeth become severely infected and damaged. This condition is caused by an excessive buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums. When plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a professional dental cleaning.
As the tartar builds up on the teeth and gums, it can cause inflammation, swelling, and bleeding. Over time, the infection can spread to the bone and tissues that support the teeth, leading to tooth loss and other serious health problems.
Symptoms of Advanced Periodontal Disease
Advanced periodontitis can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Gum Recession: The gums will start to pull away from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots. This can lead to sensitivity and an elongated appearance of the teeth.
- Gum Inflammation: The gums may appear red, swollen, and tender. They may bleed easily, especially during brushing or flossing.
- Gum Pocket Formation: Deep periodontal pockets can develop between the teeth and gums. These pockets trap bacteria and debris, leading to further infection and damage.
- Bad Breath (Halitosis): Persistent bad breath that doesn’t improve with oral hygiene can be a sign of advanced periodontal disease. The odor is typically caused by the bacteria present in the gum pockets.
- Tooth Mobility: As the supporting structures of the teeth, including the bone, ligaments, and connective tissue, become damaged, the teeth may loosen and shift out of their normal position.
- Pain or Discomfort: Advanced periodontal disease can cause discomfort or pain, especially while chewing or applying pressure to the affected teeth.
- Abscess Formation: In some cases, a pus-filled pocket or abscess may form between the tooth and gums. This can cause severe pain, swelling, and a foul taste in the mouth.
- Changes in Bite: As the teeth shift due to gum and bone loss, the bite pattern may change, resulting in an uncomfortable or uneven bite.
- Gum Ulceration: In severe cases, the gums may develop open sores or ulcers that are painful and prone to infection.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with our dentist right away.
The Impact of Advanced Periodontitis on Overall Health
Advanced periodontitis doesn’t just affect your mouth; it can have far-reaching consequences for your overall health. Research has linked this condition to several systemic health issues, including:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Respiratory infections
- Pregnancy complications
- Alzheimer’s disease
By addressing advanced periodontitis promptly, you’re not only protecting your smile but also safeguarding your general health.
Advanced Periodontal Disease Treatment Options
Treatment for advanced periodontal disease can be limited. Although there’s no way to reverse the damage like one could with gingivitis, a dentist can stop the damage from going further by recommending one or more of these treatments.
Periodontal Surgery
In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to treat advanced periodontal disease. Procedures such as flap surgery, bone grafting, or guided tissue regeneration may be performed to access deeper areas of infection, remove diseased tissue, and promote tissue regeneration and healthy bone growth.
Laser Therapy
Laser-assisted periodontal therapy is an alternative to traditional surgery. It involves using a dental laser to remove diseased tissue and bacteria while promoting gum tissue regeneration.
Antibiotic Therapy
In some cases of severe gum disease, oral antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the gum infection. They can be taken orally or applied directly to the infected areas, such as in the form of antimicrobial mouth rinses or gels.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure performed by a dental professional. It involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gum line (scaling) and smoothing the tooth roots to eliminate bacterial toxins (root planing). This procedure helps remove the source of infection and promotes the healing of the gums.
Ongoing Maintenance and Periodontal Maintenance Therapy
After an initial periodontal treatment, regular follow-up visits with a dental professional are crucial. These visits typically include professional cleanings and ongoing monitoring of gum health to prevent the recurrence or progression of periodontal disease.
Improving Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene practices at home are essential for managing advanced periodontal disease. This includes regular brushing and flossing, using antibacterial mouth rinses, and incorporating interdental cleaning tools such as dental picks or water flossers to effectively remove plaque and bacteria from the gum line and between teeth.
Advanced Periodontitis Prevention
The best way to prevent advanced gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene habits to avoid the onset of the disease. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria.
You should also schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings with our Auburn dentist to ensure that any early signs of gum disease are detected and treated promptly.
Other ways to prevent advanced gum disease include:
- Quitting Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease, and quitting smoking can help reduce your risk.
- Eating a Healthy Diet: A diet that’s rich in fruits and vegetables and low in sugar can help promote healthy teeth and gums.
- Managing Stress: Stress can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections like gum disease. Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, or therapy, can help reduce your risk of gum disease.
The Role of Professional Dental Care in Preventing Advanced Periodontitis
While good home care is essential, professional dental cleanings and check-ups play a vital role in preventing advanced periodontitis. At Auburn Family Dentistry, we recommend bi-annual visits for most patients, though those with a history of gum disease may benefit from more frequent appointments.
During these visits, we’ll:
- Perform a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
- Assess your gum health and measure pocket depths
- Screen for early signs of gum disease
- Provide personalized oral hygiene instructions
- Discuss any lifestyle factors that may be impacting your gum health
Our goal is to catch and address any issues before they develop into advanced periodontitis. By partnering with Auburn Family Dentistry for your oral health needs, you’re taking a proactive step towards maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile for life.
The Auburn Family Dentistry Advantage: Personalized Periodontal Care
At Auburn Family Dentistry, we understand that every patient’s needs are unique. Dr. Painter takes the time to thoroughly assess your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific situation.
Our commitment to patient education means we’ll walk you through each step of the process, explaining your options and answering any questions you may have. We believe in empowering our patients to make informed decisions about their oral health.
Advanced Technology for Superior Results
We’ve invested in state-of-the-art dental technology to provide the most effective treatments for advanced periodontitis. Our advanced imaging systems allow for precise diagnosis and treatment planning, while our soft tissue lasers offer minimally invasive options for gum treatment.
Don’t let advanced periodontitis compromise your smile and health. Contact Auburn Family Dentistry at (260) 357-2380 to schedule your comprehensive periodontal evaluation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes advanced periodontitis?
Advanced periodontitis is caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums that goes untreated. When plaque isn’t removed by regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by professional cleanings. Without regular cleanings, the buildup can cause infections and create pockets where bacteria harbor.
How is advanced periodontitis treated?
The treatment for advanced periodontitis will depend on the severity of the infection and the extent of the damage to your teeth and gums. In most cases, treatment may involve a combination of professional cleanings, medications, and surgery.
Can advanced periodontitis be reversed?
While the damage caused by advanced periodontitis can’t be fully reversed, it can be effectively managed and further progression can be halted with proper treatment. Professional interventions combined with improved oral hygiene practices can significantly improve gum health and prevent tooth loss.
How long does it take for periodontitis to become advanced?
The progression from early-stage gum disease to advanced periodontitis varies among individuals. Factors such as oral hygiene habits, smoking, and overall health play a role. Without treatment, it can take several months to a few years for periodontitis to reach an advanced stage.
What are the long-term consequences of advanced periodontitis?
Advanced periodontitis can lead to tooth loss, bone loss, and other serious health problems if left untreated. It’s important to seek treatment for severe periodontitis as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your teeth and gums.
Schedule an Appointment at our Auburn Dental Office Today
Whether you’re concerned about gum disease or seeking treatment for advanced periodontitis, we’re here to help. Our comprehensive approach ensures that you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment for your individual needs.
Don’t let gum disease compromise your smile and overall health. Take the first step towards healthier gums by scheduling an appointment with Auburn Family Dentistry today. Call us at (260) 357-2380 to book your consultation.
We proudly serve patients from Auburn and the surrounding communities of Garrett, Waterloo, and Butler. Your journey to optimal gum health starts here at Auburn Family Dentistry – where your smile is our priority.