Understanding Advanced Periodontal Disease
Advanced periodontitis represents a critical stage of gum disease, stemming from a bacterial infection that targets gum tissues and can result in tooth loss if not addressed during its early stages. If periodontitis remains untreated for a prolonged period, it can escalate to advanced periodontitis, causing extensive harm to the gums, teeth, and supporting bone structures.
Our Loveland, CO dentist advises seeking immediate treatment upon noticing any periodontitis symptoms to prevent further deterioration. To book an appointment, contact our dental office at (970) 669-3918 today.
What Is Advanced Periodontitis?
Advanced periodontitis occurs when the bone and tissues supporting the teeth become severely infected and damaged. This condition arises from an excessive accumulation of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums. When plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be eliminated by professional dental cleaning.
As tartar accumulates on the teeth and gums, it leads to inflammation, swelling, and bleeding. Over time, the infection can extend to the bone and tissues supporting the teeth, resulting in tooth loss and other severe health issues.
Symptoms of Advanced Periodontal Disease
Advanced periodontitis can manifest a variety of symptoms, including:
- Gum Recession: The gums may recede from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots, leading to sensitivity and an elongated appearance of the teeth.
- Gum Inflammation: The gums might appear red, swollen, and tender, bleeding easily, especially during brushing or flossing.
- Gum Pocket Formation: Deep periodontal pockets can form between the teeth and gums, trapping bacteria and debris, which leads to further infection and damage.
- Bad Breath (Halitosis): Persistent bad breath that doesn’t improve with oral hygiene can indicate advanced periodontal disease, typically caused by bacteria in the gum pockets.
- Tooth Mobility: As the supporting structures of the teeth, including bone, ligaments, and connective tissue, become compromised, teeth may loosen and shift out of their normal position.
- Pain or Discomfort: Advanced periodontal disease can cause discomfort or pain, particularly when chewing or applying pressure to the affected teeth.
- Abscess Formation: In some cases, a pus-filled pocket or abscess may form between the tooth and gums, causing severe pain, swelling, and a foul taste in the mouth.
- Changes in Bite: As teeth shift due to gum and bone loss, the bite pattern may alter, resulting in an uncomfortable or uneven bite.
- Gum Ulceration: In severe cases, the gums may develop open sores or ulcers that are painful and prone to infection.
If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your dentist promptly.
Advanced Periodontal Disease Treatment Options
Treatment for advanced periodontal disease can be challenging. Although reversing the damage isn’t possible as it is with gingivitis, your dentist can halt further damage by recommending one or more of these treatments.
Periodontal Surgery
In certain cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address advanced periodontal disease. Procedures like flap surgery, bone grafting, or guided tissue regeneration may be performed to access deeper infection areas, remove diseased tissue, and promote tissue regeneration and healthy bone growth.
Laser Therapy
Laser-assisted periodontal therapy offers an alternative to traditional surgery, utilizing a dental laser to remove diseased tissue and bacteria while encouraging gum tissue regeneration.
Antibiotic Therapy
In cases of severe gum disease, oral antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the gum infection. They can be taken orally or applied directly to infected areas, such as in the form of antimicrobial mouth rinses or gels.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure performed by a dental professional. It involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gum line (scaling) and smoothing the tooth roots to eliminate bacterial toxins (root planing). This procedure helps remove the infection source and promotes gum healing.
Ongoing Maintenance and Periodontal Maintenance Therapy
After initial periodontal treatment, regular follow-up visits with a dental professional are crucial. These visits typically include professional cleanings and ongoing monitoring of gum health to prevent the recurrence or progression of periodontal disease.
Improving Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene practices at home are vital for managing advanced periodontal disease. This includes regular brushing and flossing, using antibacterial mouth rinses, and incorporating interdental cleaning tools like dental picks or water flossers to effectively remove plaque and bacteria from the gum line and between teeth.
Advanced Periodontitis Prevention
The best way to prevent advanced gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene habits to avoid the disease’s onset. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to eliminate bacteria.
You should also schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings with our Loveland, CO dentist to ensure that any early signs of gum disease are detected and treated promptly.
Other ways to prevent advanced gum disease include:
- Quitting Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease, and quitting smoking can help reduce your risk.
- Eating a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in sugar can promote healthy teeth and gums.
- Managing Stress: Stress can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections like gum disease. Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, or therapy, can help reduce your risk of gum disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Advanced periodontitis is caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums that goes untreated. When plaque isn’t removed by regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by professional cleanings. Without regular cleanings, the buildup can cause infections and create pockets where bacteria harbor.
The treatment for advanced periodontitis will depend on the severity of the infection and the extent of the damage to your teeth and gums. In most cases, treatment may involve a combination of professional cleanings, medications, and surgery.
Advanced periodontitis can lead to tooth loss, bone loss, and other serious health problems if left untreated. It’s crucial to seek treatment for severe periodontitis as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your teeth and gums.
Schedule an Appointment at our Loveland, CO Dental Office Today
If you’re experiencing any symptoms of advanced periodontitis, don’t wait to seek treatment. Call our office at (970) 669-3918 to schedule your consultation. We welcome patients from Evans, Campion, and Garden City.
Early treatment is essential for preventing further damage and long-term consequences, so don’t hesitate to take action and prioritize your oral health.