Periodontal (Gum Disease) Treatment in Puyallup, WA (Washington)
Also serving Federal Way, Tacoma, Sumner, Milton, Graham, and Auburn, WA.
Gum disease (also called periodontal
disease) is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth.
It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because gum disease
is usually painless, you may not know you have it. At each regular
checkup the dentist will measure the depth of the shallow v-shaped
crevice (called a sulcus) between your tooth and gums to identify
whether you have gum disease.
Gum
disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly
forms on the teeth. These bacteria create toxins that can damage
the gums.
Periodontal diseases attack just below the gum line in the sulcus,
where they cause the attachment of the tooth and supporting tissues
to break down. As the tissues are damaged, the sulcus develops
into a pocket; generally, the more severe the disease, the greater
the depth of the pocket.
Periodontal diseases are classified according to the severity
of the disease. The two major stages are gingivitis and periodontitis.
 In the early stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, the gums
become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease
is still reversible and can usually be eliminated by daily
brushing and flossing.
In the more advanced stages of gum disease, called periodontitis,
the gums and bone that support the teeth become seriously damaged.
Whereas healthy gums and bone anchor teeth firmly in place,
infected gums can cause teeth to become loose, fall out, or
have to be removed by a dentist.
- Tobacco smoking or chewing
- System-wide diseases such as diabetes
- Some types of medication such as steroids, some types of
anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel
blockers, and oral contraceptives
- Bridges that no longer fit properly
- Crooked teeth
- Fillings that have become defective
- Pregnancy
- Gums that bleed easily
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
- Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- Any change in the fit of partial dentures
That is one reason why regular dental checkups and periodontal
examinations are very important. Treatment methods depend on
the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed.
Good oral hygiene at home is essential to keep periodontal disease
from becoming more serious or recurring. You don't have to lose
teeth to periodontal disease. Brush, clean between your teeth,
eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular dental visits for a
lifetime of healthy smiles. |
Some factors increase the risk of developing periodontal
disease: