Periodontal disease has been a prevailing dental problem affecting nearly 60% of people globally. It progresses gradually from gingivitis to periodontitis over a period of time. Thus identifying the disease early is crucial.
The dental team of expert specialists at the Coconut Creek Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry Center offers a comprehensive approach to treating periodontal disease. But treatment depends on the specific type of the condition which can affect the prognosis. So read on to unwind the types of periodontal disease to determine what treatment option best suits to treat the condition.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal or gum disease is a progressive destruction of the soft tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth, namely the gums. It is a gradual process that may take weeks, months, or years to progress into irreversible damage.
What are the types of periodontal disease?
There are two basic types of periodontal disease, namely:
Gingivitis
- This is the earliest and mildest form of periodontal disease characterized by the inflammation of the gums.
- This is a reversible stage of periodontal disease provided if detected early.
- Symptoms include:
- Red, blazing gums
- Inflamed, sore gums
- Bleeding gums
- Treatment usually includes:
- Scaling and root planing
Periodontitis
-
- This is an advanced form of untreated cases of gingivitis which involves the underlying jawbone.
- Periodontitis is further divided into three types that have been discussed below in detail.
- Chronic periodontitis
-
-
-
- This type of periodontal disease exhibits inflammation below the gum line, with destruction of the gingival and bone tissues.
- You are likely to experience a gum recession, and diastema (gaps in between teeth)
- Treatment includes:
- Scaling and root planing
- Antimicrobial medications
-
-
- Necrotizing periodontitis
-
-
-
- This form of disease is more prevalent among people suffering from HIV, immunosuppression, malnutrition, and chronic stress.
- Tissue death affects the periodontal ligament, gingival tissues, and alveolar bone.
- Symptoms include:
- Tooth mobility with tissue death
- Tooth loss
- Treatment includes:
- Scaling and root planing
- Antibiotics
- Medicated mouthwash
- Antifungal drugs
-
-
- Aggressive periodontitis
-
-
- This is the most severe form that is characterized by rapid loss of gum attachment and bone tissues.
- Symptoms include:
- Loss of tooth attachment
- Tooth mobility
- Tooth loss
- Treatment includes:
- Scaling and root planing
- Pocket reduction surgery
- Gum tissue grafting
-
Bottom line
Periodontal disease can be debilitating, and wreak havoc on your oral health if not detected and treated on time. If you notice any symptoms of periodontal disease consult your dentist right away, to prevent further deterioration.