Gum disease - Should it be taken lightly?

The Teeth-ing Troubles

Periodontal Treatment for gum disease and its relevance in Dentistry and Medical practice-
Gum disease more often progress slowly and cause underlying bone damage. In most cases, it is not very painful and bleeding gums is the only sign. It may be vital to know that our dentition is healthy and strong only as long as our bone structure and neuromuscular control is. The joint and muscular coordination that help us chew efficiently , may also be affected majorly with loss of teeth(dentition) due to bone loss caused by periodontal(gum) infection.People with valve defects and rheumatic heart disease have a greater risk towards infective endocarditis. In Diabetics, bone loss is progressive that make gums sore and have a greater tendency towards gingival and periodontal abscess.
A visit to the Dentist is recommended for the best interest of the individuals susceptible to a greater damage than obvious.

Periodontal Treatment:

What is periodontal disease? 

Periodontitis is the outcome from infection that is resulting from a complex interplay between bacterial infection and host response, often modified by behavioral factors. 

Epidemiology of periodontal diseases:

Documentation reveals 5-15% of any population suffers from severe generalised periodontitis, even though moderate disease affects majority of adults. The adult population suffers from chronic periodontitis with mild attachment loss.

Chronic Periodontitis:

Chronic periodontitis is an infectious disease resulting in inflammation within the supporting tissues of the teeth, with progressive attachment and bone loss.

Risk Factors and determinants associated with chronic periodontitis: 

· Plaque,poor oral hygiene

· Tobacco

· Genetic predisposition

· Psychosocial stress

· Diabetes

· Systemic disease

Diagnosis: is based on the following- 

· Bleeding on probing,probing depth and clinical attachment loss

· Testing teeth for mobility

· Radiographic examination(vertical bitewings and periapical view)


Treatment includes:

· Scaling and root planning

· Pharmacological therapy

· Surgical therapy and occlusal adjustment



For more information :

Contact: Dr.Sreenita Chowdhury

email:Smileoracles@gmail.com