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Periodontitis

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Pyorrhea - gum disease; Inflammation of gums - involving bone

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, eliminate pockets if present, and address any underlying causes. Dental irritants, such as rough surfaces of teeth or dental appliances, should be repaired. General illness or other conditions should be treated.

It is important to have the teeth cleaned thoroughly. This may involve use of various instruments or devices to loosen and remove deposits from the teeth (scaling). Meticulous home oral hygiene is necessary after professional tooth cleaning to limit further destruction. The dentist or hygienist will demonstrate brushing and flossing techniques. With periodontitis, professional tooth cleaning is often recommended more frequently than the standard twice a year.

Surgical treatment may be necessary. Deep pockets may need to be opened and cleaned. Loose teeth may need to be supported. Extraction (removal) of a tooth may be necessary for advanced periodontitis so destruction doesn't spread to adjacent teeth.

Expectations (prognosis):

Removal of dental plaque from inflamed gums may be uncomfortable. Bleeding and tenderness of the gums should be reduced within 1 or 2 weeks of treatment. Healthy gums are pink and firm in appearance. Careful oral hygiene must be maintained lifelong or the disorder may recur.

Complications:

• Recurrence of periodontitis
• Tooth abscess
• Infection or abscess of the soft tissue (facial cellulitis )
• Infection of the jaw bones ( osteomyelitis )
• Trench mouth
• Mobile or lost teeth
• Tooth flaring or shifting

Calling your health care provider:

Consult your dentist if signs of gingivitis are present.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if the dentist recommends medical treatment of underlying conditions that contribute to the development of periodontitis.

• Review Date: 8/8/2007
• Reviewed By: Michael Kapner, D.D.S., General and Cosmetic Dentistry, New Rochelle, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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