Periodontal Treatment
Periodontal disease is considered an infection in your gum tissue. Though there are many causes of periodontal disease inclucing smoking, stress, and being hereditary, the most common cause of periodontal disease is poor oral and overall health.
Dr. Craig Janssen provides expert diagnosis and treatment of gum disease in Green Bay. Gum disease is a condition that progresses over time and impacts both the teeth and the gums. This is an important issue, as it is the leading cause of tooth loss for adults in the United States. Research links a connection between gum disease and an elevated risk for heart disease, pregnancy complications, and other systemic diseases.
You might have gum disease or a mouth infection if you have these symptoms:
Bleeding or receding gums
Bad breath
Sore or inflamed gums
Toothaches or sensitive teeth
Loose teeth
The 3 stages of gum disease
Gum disease is not limited to people who completely ignore their dental care. Some estimates point to approximately three out of every four Americans having some form of gum disease.
It is critically important to brush and floss your teeth regularly to minimize the number of bacteria that can be present in your mouth. The earlier the disease is identified and treated by your denitst, the better your chances of keeping your teeth for the rest of your life.
Stage 1: Gingivitis
Gum disease in its early stage is attributed to the accumulation of plaque and bacteria around the gum line. Failing to carry out daily brushing and flossing routines can facilitate the growth of bad bacteria. The inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis, is characterized by redness and swelling and may lead to bleeding. The silver lining is that gingivitis is reversible at this stage as the bone and connective fibers supporting the teeth remain unaffected. By effectively eliminating plaque and bacterial irritants from the teethand gums, the gum tissues can undergo the healing process.
Stage 2: Periodontitis
Gingivitis has the potential to advance to a more severe condition known as periodontitis if left unaddressed. In this advanced stage of gum disease, there is a significant and often irreversible deterioration of the bone and connective tissues that anchor the teeth in place. As a result, pockets develop between the gums andteeth, creating spaces where harmful plaque and bacteria accumulate. This accumulation can lead to the degradation of the supportive structures of the teeth. Seeking prompt treatment is crucial in order to mitigate the risk of further damage and potential tooth loss.
Stage 3: advanced periodontitis
During the advanced stage of gum disease, significant damage to the connective tissues and bone supporting the teeth has occurred. Bacteria, which has propagated in pockets surrounding the teeth, has deeply intensified, resulting in tooth mobility and misalignment. Seeking professional treatment for gum disease from a dentist is the final option for preserving dental health.