Periodontal Disease in Arlington

What is periodontal disease?

Early periodontal disease (gingivitis) is characterized by bleeding, puffy, painful gum tissue. It is caused by unremoved bacterial plaque (sticky, colorless film produced by normal oral bacteria) from the tooth surface which then spreads on to the gum tissue. Your gum tissue acts as a seal around your teeth, protecting the more sensitive underlying structures from bacteria and debris. Gingivitis progresses to more serious periodontal disease when the bacterial plaque is left on the teeth/gum tissue and the bacteria are allowed to release toxins. These toxins break down the fibers that seal the gums to the teeth, creating pockets. These pockets allow for more bacteria and toxins to hide, flourish and ultimately destroy gum tissue, surrounding bone and even teeth. Unfortunately, seventy percent of adult tooth loss is attributed to gum disease.

Am I more at risk for periodontal disease?

Patients prone to more plaque buildup are at higher risk for developing periodontal disease. Hereditary and lifestyle factors may also make a person more susceptible, as well as those with diabetes, especially if uncontrolled.

Are there overall health implications to having periodontal disease?

Research shows periodontitis may increase risk of heart disease, heart attack and stroke due to the chronic inflammation characteristic of the disease. The bacteria found in periodontitis may also cause respiratory disease in the form of pneumonia. Men with periodontal disease are more likely to develop kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer and blood cancer. There is also a link of periodontal disease to the progression of Alzheimer's as the bacteria may be able to travel to the brain and contribute to its development. Pregnant women with periodontal disease may be at risk for early birth or small babies.

How do you treat periodontal disease?

In early stages, a non-surgical deeper cleaning called Scaling and Root Planing can be performed to remove bacterial plaque, calculus and toxins in the deeper pockets that have formed around the teeth. The use of Laser Assisted Periodontal Therapy (LAPT)  aids in additionally removing bacteria and diseased tissue, and allows better healing tissue to form. A localized antibiotic (Arestin) may also be utilized to control bacteria within the pocket. 

Maintenance of periodontitis is incredibly important as those with a history of the disease are more prone to recurrence. Patients with a history of periodontal disease will return every 3 or 4 months for periodontal maintenance cleanings, not a typical routine cleaning. These maintenance cleanings are more complicated due to the previously diseased/deeper pockets and bone loss, and any signs of recurrence will be recorded and addressed with appropriate measures.