PERIODONTICS

Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Your gum tissue is not attached to the teeth as high as it may seem. There is a very shallow v-shaped crevice called a sulcus between your tooth and gums. Periodontal disease attack just below the gum line in the sulcus, where they cause the attachment of the tooth and its supporting tissues to break down. As the tissues are damaged, the sulcus develops into a pocket. Generally, the more severe the disease, the greater the depth of the pocket.

Periodontal diseases are classified according to their severity. The two major stages are: Gingivitis - A milder form of periodontal disease that only affects the gums. At this stage, the disease is reversible and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing. In the early stage gum disease can be painless and have no warning signs. That is one reason why regular dental check-ups, professional cleanings and periodontal examinations are essential to prevent periodontal disease. If untreated, may lead to more serious and destructive forms.

Periodontitis - At this stage the gums and bone that support the teeth become seriously damaged. The teeth can become loose, fall out or to be removed by a dentist.

Treatment methods depend upon the type of disease and its progression. Good oral hygiene at home is essential to help keep periodontal disease from becoming more serious or recurring. You do not have to lose teeth to periodontal disease.

Factors increasing the risk of developing periodontal disease:

	Tobacco, smoking or chewing
	Systemic disease such as diabetes
	Some types of medication such as steroids, some types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers
	Bridges that no longer fit properly
	Crooked teeth
	Fillings that have become defective
	Pregnancy or use of oral contraceptives

Warning sings of periodontal disease:

	Gums that bleed easily when you brush your teeth
	Red, swollen or tender gums
	Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
	Persistent bad breath or bad taste
	Pus between your teeth and gums
	Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
	Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
	Any change in the fit of partial dentures

The cost of periodontal treatment depends on patients' needs and expectations. Our price guide fees reflect the highest quality of care to bring the best results.

Periodontal consultation is the first step. Patient's relevant dental radiographs (X-rays) are required to see how much of the bone support has been lost to determine the appropriate treatment with an estimate of cost. The consultation fee includes a full diagnostic report. You should keep in mind that treating gum disease is less costly and better for your health than replacing lost teeth as a result of negligence.