Periodontal Gum Disease is a common disease that affects a large portion of the population, but usually does not begin until people are in their 30’s and 40’s. Periodontal Disease is an inflammation of the gum that is caused by infected pockets that form under the gum as it inflames and pulls away from the teeth.

Periodontal disease is caused by a buildup of plaque that has hardened and turned into bacterial harboring tartar, which basic teeth brushing and flossing cannot remove. Periodontal treatments include a deep cleaning also called Scaling and Root Planing, medications to control or eliminate the infection, and possible surgery if the other treatment options do not work, or the gums are infected to the extent of surgery being the only option.


Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease and may also be the most well known of gum diseases. Symptoms of gingivitis include swollen gums that may bleed when you brush or floss. Prevention and treatment of gingivitis is good oral hygiene.


Signs And Symptoms: 

It's important to understand that you can have periodontal disease with no obvious symptoms, especially if you are a smoker (nicotine reduces blood supply preventing bleeding and swelling of the gum tissues). Still, there are some important things to look for:

• Bleeding gums — Some people think that when their gums bleed, it simply means they're brushing too hard. While brushing too hard is bad for the gums, it should not cause bleeding. Any bleeding of the gums should be considered a warning sign of gum disease.
• Bad breath — It's very easy for plaque to collect in the spaces between the teeth, creating the perfect living conditions for bacteria that produce odorous, sulfur-containing compounds, resulting in bad breath.
• Redness or swelling of the gums — Inflammation of the gums is usually the first visible sign of periodontal disease.
• Receding gums — If you notice that your teeth look longer than they used to, it may be that your gum tissue has receded (away from the enamel), exposing some of your tooth roots.
• Sensitivity — If there is gum recession, the exposed roots may become sensitive to hot or cold.
• Periodontal abscess — Bacteria can become enclosed in a periodontal pocket and the area will fill with pus, becoming swollen and painful.
• Loose teeth — When periodontal disease results in bone loss, teeth can become loose or migrate. Tooth loss can result and may be accelerated if you are applying excessive biting forces from clenching or grinding your teeth.

Treatment Options:

All periodontal therapy starts with the evaluation of your oral hygiene techniques and instruction for improving them, followed by the mechanical removal of plaque and any calcified deposits (tartar or calculus) that are present on the root surfaces. This is accomplished with a cleaning technique known as Scaling, Root Planing or Debridement using hand instruments and/or ultrasonic (high frequency vibrational) instruments. Locally applied antimicrobial products or antibiotics might also be recommended during various parts of periodontal treatment to assist in healing and pocket-depth reduction, hopefully eliminating the need for periodontal surgery. Sometimes surgical procedures may be necessary to remove the deep pockets that form between inflamed gum tissue and teeth. There are many different types of surgery to handle a variety of problems. And many times, combinations of procedures are used to attempt to reduce the number of surgeries as well as the cost of treatment.

We are experienced in treating Periodontal Gum Disease and will perform a thorough examination of the infected gums to ensure proper action is taken.

Do you want to learn more about Periodontal Gum Disease and how we can help?
Then call Mapledale Family Dentistry at (513) 753-4780 today or book an appointment!