Periodontology

Periodontology looks after the tissues that hold teeth in place: the gum and the bone beneath. Untreated gum disease is among the leading causes of tooth loss. Healthy gums are the foundation every smile stands on, which is why we treat them first, not last.

What gum disease is

Gum disease begins when bacterial plaque on the tooth inflames the gum. In its early stage, gingivitis, the gum reddens, swells and bleeds on brushing; with proper care this stage is reversible. Left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis, which affects the bone that supports the tooth.

The stages of gum disease

Gum disease moves through stages, and knowing where you are shapes what can be done. The early stage, gingivitis, is inflammation of the gum only: they may be red, swollen and bleed when brushed, but no lasting damage has been done and it is fully reversible with proper cleaning [1]. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the inflammation reaches the bone that holds the teeth and some of that bone is lost. This deeper stage cannot be reversed, but it can be stopped, and further loss prevented, with treatment and steady care [2]. The line between the two is why an early check matters so much.

The signs

Bleeding, redness and tender gums; bad breath; receding gums; loosening teeth. Because there is often little pain until the disease is advanced, regular check-ups are what catch it in time.

How does tartar form?

It begins with plaque, a soft film of bacteria that settles on the teeth every day. When plaque is not cleaned away, minerals in the saliva harden it into tartar, a rough deposit that ordinary brushing can no longer remove. That rough surface gives bacteria more to hold onto and lets them creep below the gum line, where they drive the inflammation that damages gum and bone. This is why tartar is not just a cosmetic issue, and why removing it professionally is the foundation of gum treatment.

Treatment

Treatment rests on professionally removing plaque and tartar from the tooth. In advanced cases, root surface debridement or surgery may be needed. Success is tied directly to the care you give your teeth each day, which is why we teach as much as we treat.

The link to general health

Research examines links between gum disease and diabetes, cardiovascular health and pregnancy [1]. The American Academy of Periodontology stresses that gum health should be treated as part of general health [1]. Periodontal care, in other words, is not a matter of the mouth alone.

Prevention

Brushing twice a day, cleaning between teeth daily and regular professional cleaning are the foundation. Smoking is a major factor that raises the risk of gum disease.