Periodontal Disease
A recent study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that nearly one out of every two American adults aged 30 and over has gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth. The early stages of periodontal disease are often asymptomatic; many adults may have the disease and not know it.
Symptoms of periodontal disease include:
• Bleeding gums during brushing • Red, swollen or tender gums • Gums that have pulled away from the teeth • Persistent bad breath • Pus between the teeth and gums • Loose or separating teeth • A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
“Periodontal disease is insidious. Many people don’t even know they have a problem until it turns into a severe case. Just because your teeth and gums don’t hurt, doesn’t mean your mouth is healthy.”
-Dr. Cady
Treatment Options
+ Scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planning also known as “deep cleaning” is a periodontal therapy to remove calculus that has formed under the gums. Patients who are indicated for scaling have periodontal disease with calculus deposits under the gums. Many patients indicated have not had their teeth cleaned for more than a year. After the removal of the calculus the gum tissues heals around the tooth. With proper healing, bleeding and inflammation will reduce or discontinue.
It is important to have a comprehensive periodontal evaluation to determine your risk of disease. Many patients do not know they have a problem until their dentist or hygienist identifies the issues. Early therapy with scaling will have a better more predicable outcome. Please contact our office for more information on how we can help protect you from the dangers of periodontal disease.
+ Bone Grafting
Periodontal disease causes bone loss around teeth that can compromise the integrity and stability of teeth. Some patients can benefit from a bone grafting procedure to regenerate lost bone. Dr. Cady can consult with you to determine if you would be a good candidate for bone grafting procedures.
+ LANAAP
Lasers are becoming more popular within dentistry. The use of a Periolase MVP-7 for periodontal therapy provides patients with a surgical option with no sutures and limited post op discomfort. The LANAP protocol provides true regeneration without the addition of bone and other regenerative materials. Dr. Cady is certified in LANAP surgery and is the only provider in Pocatello offering the LANAP true regeneration procedures.
Over time, inflammation as a result of periodontal disease causes the gums and bones surrounding the teeth to recede. “When you lose teeth or the structures holding your teeth in place, the overall look of your face, mouth and smile will be impacted,” says Dr. Cady.
What’s more, periodontal disease can affect more than just your smile. Research has indicated that periodontal disease is associated with other chronic inflammatory diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Routine brushing and flossing as well as receiving a comprehensive periodontal evaluation, or CPE, every year. A CPE gauges your periodontal health, diagnoses existing disease, assesses risk for disease, and determines any treatment, if needed. The CPE can be performed at your regular check-up by a member of the dental team, including a general dentist, dental hygienist or periodontist.