Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)

Eventually, the bacteria in the plaque and tarter eat away at the fibers that hold the gums to the teeth, creating deep pockets. As bacteria spread, the pockets become deeper until the bacteria finally eat away the bone that holds the tooth in place.

In periodontitis, bone is affected or reduced in height. Pocket probing will reveal pocket depths greater than 4mm. The gingiva may also be red swollen, and may bleed during brushing or flossing. When periodontitis has been present for a long time, the tooth may be seen to move in its socket and the gingiva may be receded (a condition where the gingiva has shrunk and exposed the root of the tooth).

Gingival recession predisposes a tooth to decay of the root surfaces and dentin sensitivity (a condition wherein the patient experiences severe pain whenever he brushes his teeth, eats something sweet or drinks something cold).

Treatment of periodontal disease requires the patient's cooperation. Both doctor and patient have a role to play in order for the treatment to be succesful. The dentist is responsible for removing all plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) on the teeth while the patient is in the clinic. The patient is responsible for keeping the teeth clean outside the clinic. For most patients, this entails learning new skills, acquiring new habits or even modifying one's lifestyle.