Diagnosis
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease affects 75% of American adults. Periodontal diseases are the leading cause of adult tooth loss and are painless until their advanced stages. When treated aggressively periodontal diseases can be successfully treated and prevented.
A periodontal examination begins with an evaluation of complete set of dental x-rays which will allow Dr. Hoyson to determine the extent of the bone loss around each tooth. A visual examination of your teeth and gums will check for swelling, bleeding, redness, receding gums and the amount of plaque or tartar present. A tiny ruler (called a periodontal probe) will be gently inserted around the tooth to check for a periodontal pocket around the tooth. The deeper and more numerous the pockets, the more severe the periodontal disease. Dr. Hoyson will give his treatment recommendation based on these findings.
Treatment
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and if left untreated can escalate into periodontitis. Symptoms include bleeding gums, sour taste and bad breath. Gingivitis can be successfully treated by following a strict oral hygiene regimen which includes daily brushing, flossing and the use of antimicrobial mouth rinse, and returning for regular professional cleanings.
Periodontal Disease (Early Stage)
When untreated gingivitis progresses to periodontal disease a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planning is recommended. This procedure is done utilizing local anesthetic to numb the area. Plaque, tartar and infected gum tissue are comfortably removed from below the gum line to eliminate infection causing bacteria responsible for gum disease. Antibiotics, antimicrobial mouth rinses, and electric tooth brushes may be recommended to promote healing and prevent infection. Patients are encouraged to return following completion of the deep cleaning to evaluate the health of the new gum tissue. Benefits of this treatment include fresh breath, and most importantly healthy gums free of infection.
Periodontal Disease (Advanced)
Dr. Hoyson may recommend that patients with advanced periodontal disease (mobile teeth with significant bone loss) be evaluated by a periodontist (a specialist with advanced training in health of gums and bone).
