What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory process that affects the gums and bone supporting your teeth. It shares similarities with other systemic conditions like cardiovascular disease and autoimmune disorders. The disease is triggered by pathogenic bacteria under the gumline, which activate your immune system and cause inflammation. Over time, this can lead to jawbone deterioration and tooth loss.
These bacteria live within a biofilm—a sticky, calcified barrier that protects them and makes them resistant to antibiotics and mouth rinses. Biofilms begin at the gumline but can move deeper over time, hiding in the root surfaces. Periodontal disease often takes years to develop, making early intervention critical.
Why You Need a Specialist
A periodontist is a dental specialist that is trained to manage periodontal disease, especially when it has reached an advanced stage. After scaling and root planing has been completed, the gums need 3-4+ weeks to heal and recover before an accurate assessment of disease can be done. The periodontist will help make an accurate diagnosis and discuss a treatment plan, options, and answer whatever questions you may have.
Periodontal surgery and laser-assisted periodontal treatments are available to effectively eliminate bacterial biofilms that are beyond the reach of conventional treatment methods. There are also ways to regenerate bone that has been damaged by the disease process. If some teeth are unable to be treated and must be removed, then this will also be discussed in detail, including replacement options.
Common Misconceptions
“My teeth don’t hurt.”
Pain is not a reliable indicator of periodontal disease. Waiting for discomfort often means waiting too long.
“Can’t I just take an antibiotic or use a mouth rinse?”
Unfortunately, no. Antibiotics don’t reach the biofilms under the gumline, and mouth rinses can’t penetrate the protective barrier. Biofilms must be physically disrupted.
“I’ll just floss more or see my hygienist more often.”
While good flossing habits are important, they can’t reach deep biofilms. Hygienists are also limited in what they can access once the disease has progressed.
Advanced Diagnostics
We may use tools like SalivaScore™ to measure inflammatory markers and assess your risk. A high score doesn’t mean you have periodontal disease, but it does indicate a greater risk of damage in the presence of bacterial biofilms. This helps us tailor your treatment plan more effectively.
Long-Term Management
The goal of treatment is to eliminate biofilms and create a healthy environment for healing. Even after successful treatment, some teeth may continue to weaken and require future attention. If a tooth cannot be saved, we’ll guide you through replacement options that suit your needs and timeline.
Periodontal Disease and Overall Health
Chronic inflammation from periodontal disease can contribute to systemic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and pregnancy complications. Managing oral inflammation is a key part of protecting your overall health.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease or suspect you may have it, schedule a consultation with Leading Edge Specialized Dentistry. Our specialists are here to provide expert care and help you achieve lasting oral health.