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| What is periodontal disease? |
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Periodontal disease (also know as periodontal infection, gum disease) is an ongoing infection in the gums around your teeth. The cause of periodontal disease is infectious bacteria which gets deep into your gums.
This infection starts destroying the bone which supports your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss. For more information, see the section entitled Periodontal Disease.
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| What are the symptoms of periodontal infection? |
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Because periodontal infection grows under your gums, you can have no symptoms at all. More advanced cases can have some of the following symptoms:
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Red, swollen or tender gums. |
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Spaces between the teeth |
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Tooth Sensitivity to heat/cold |
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Loose or shifting teeth |
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Bad breath (Halitosis) |
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Missing teeth |
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Deep pockets around the teeth |
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Gums receding around the teeth
(Longer looking teeth) |
For more information see the section entitled Periodontal Disease.
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Why, all of a sudden, is my dentist sending me to a periodontist?
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Periodontists have advanced training in the treatment of periodontal disease and dental implants.
Patients with periodontal infection have lowered resistance to periodontal bacteria. This causes a continuing gum infection which can grow in bursts. Some factors which can cause a dramatic speed-up of your periodontal disease are:
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Poor Oral Hygiene |
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Stress |
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Dental Plaque |
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Diet |
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Smoking |
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Age |
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Genetic Factors |
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Illness |
Other important factors are:
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Lack of regular dental checkups. |
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Lack of regular dental cleanings. |
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Cancer patients who have had treatments of chemotherapy and/or radiation |
When your infection has a "burst" of growth, or when there are signs that this is may occur, periodontal treatment may be recommended.
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How is periodontal disease treated?
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There are a few different treatments for periodontal infection. The goal of treatment is to remove the infectious bacteria from beneath the gums and control its future regrowth. For more information see Procedures.
After your initial examination, we will completely explain your different options for treatment.
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Does periodontal treatment hurt?
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One of our primary concerns is that you have a comfortable experience during treatment. Towards this end, we offer an extensive array of the latest techniques to minimize discomfort.
For more information on these techniques, see Procedures.
Many of our patients come back stating they are amazed at how little discomfort they experienced.
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What is going to happen on my first appointment?
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On your first visit to our office, you will receive a periodontal examination. You should experience little, if any, discomfort during this examination. If necessary, x-rays will be taken to further evaluate any loss of bone around your teeth.
Afterwards the findings and options for treatment will be thoroughly explained. At that time the doctor will answer any questions you may have.
Our goal is that you leave with a complete understanding of your condition and the treatment needed to restore you to optimum oral health.
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What treatments do you provide?
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Besides periodontal treatment and implants, we can perform a number of procedures. These include:
For more information on these procedures, please see the Section entitled "Procedures".
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Why must I have my periodontal infection treated?
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Periodontal infection grows in "bursts of activity".
Periodontal disease has also been linked to other systemic health risks and problems.
It is likely that you have been referred to us because your general dentist has noticed an increase in infection activity.
This infection eats away at the bone that supports your teeth (leading to tooth loss). If not treated, there can be a number of consequences. Please see the Consequences for a list of these.
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What are the medical consequences if I delay treatment?
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Untreated periodontal infection progresses by first getting into the bone around your teeth, then entering your blood stream, and finally travelling to other parts of the body where it can contribute to medical problems.
Recent research has found that patients with periodontal disease are more than twice as likely to have heart disease and stroke.
Please read the section entitled "Medical Consequences" to see an overview of recent research correlating periodontal disease with serious medical problems.
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Do you work with my general dentist regarding my periodontal care?
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Your general dentist knows your entire dental history, the condition of your teeth, and your future dental needs. He or she is in charge of your overall dental care. We work closely with him or her to ensure you receive the best possible dental care.
In many cases, your general dentist may do your preliminary periodontal treatment and a portion of your periodontal maintenance afterwards.
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Do you use the latest equipment and techniques?
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Dr. Aeschliman utilizes the latest technology and techniques to ensure quality results for his patients. This includes using the best dental equipment as well as the best dental supplies. This gives his patients a greater chance of realizing the results that they desire.
Our office is regulated by OSHA and WISHA. As such we maintain complete adherence to these important standards.
For more information on treatment techniques and sterilization see the Section entitled "Procedures".
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