People usually don’t show signs of gum disease until they are in their 30’s or 40’s. Men are more likely to have gum disease than women. What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Bleeding while brushing and/or flossing
- Painful chewing
- Loose teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums
Any of these symptoms may be the sign of a serious problem,if you have any of these symptoms it’s time to schedule an appointment. Dr.Shlafer is an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease. A periodontal evaluation would include taking necessary x-rays to determine the extent of any bone loss, reviewing your medical history to identify underlying conditions or risk factors (such as smoking) that may contribute to gum disease. He would examine your gums for signs of inflammation, and use a tiny ruler called a “probe” to check and measure any pockets. In a healthy mouth the depth of these pockets is usually between 1 and 3 millimeters.
What are the different types of periodontal disease?
- Gingivitis–the mildest form of periodontal disease, gums are likely to be red, swollen and tender causing them to bleed easily during cleaning and flossing.
- Mild periodontitis—untreated gingivitis leads to mild periodontitis. This stage of gum disease shows evidence of the bone around the tooth starting to erode. Prompt dental attention is necessary to prevent further erosion and damage.
- Moderate to advanced periodontitis–This most advanced stage of gum disease shows significant bone and tissue loss surrounding the teeth. This condition is treated with LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY.
Tomorrow–What is LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY? Why is this the superior treatment for gum disease?
