Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Disease

The word periodontal literally means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth.

Periodontal diseases present significant challenges for the dental profession and the general public. Despite advancements in periodontal therapy, periodontal diseases are still the major cause of tooth loss in adults.

Periodontal Disease in Beverly Hills, CA. Dr. Hessam Nowzari, D.D.S., Ph.D., Dr. Eric Cho, D.D.S. Hessam Nowzari DDS, PHD

Types of Periodontal Disease

There are many forms of this disease. The most common ones include the following.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease, and it causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. At this stage, however, there is usually little or no discomfort, which means many people may not notice the problem right away. Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible with professional dental treatment. In addition, maintaining good at-home oral care, such as regular brushing and flossing, can help restore gum health. Therefore, early detection and proper care are important to prevent the condition from progressing into more serious forms of gum disease.

Aggressive Periodontitis

A form of periodontitis that occurs in patients who are otherwise clinically healthy. Common features include rapid attachment loss and bone destruction and familial aggregation.

Chronic Periodontitis

A form of periodontal disease resulting in inflammation within the supporting tissues of the teeth, progressive attachment and bone loss and is characterized by pocket formation and/or recession of the gingiva. It is recognized as the most frequently occurring form of periodontitis. It is prevalent in adults, but can occur at any age. Progression of attachment loss usually occurs slowly, but periods of rapid progression can occur.

Periodontitis as a Manifestation of Systemic Diseases

Periodontititis, often with onset at a young age, associated with one of several systemic diseases, such as diabetes.

Necrotizing Periodontal Diseases

An infection characterized by necrosis of gingival tissues, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. These lesions are most commonly observed in individuals with systemic conditions including, but not limited to, HIV infection, malnutrition and immunosuppression.

Treatment of Periodontal Disease

If you’re diagnosed with advanced periodontal disease, and the tissue around your teeth cannot be repaired with non-surgical treatment, you may require periodontal surgery.

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