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How Periodontal Disease Can Affect Your Health

Periodontal disease, sometimes referred to as gum disease, is a common and usually chronic condition that affects the tooth's supporting structures including the gums, bone, and ligaments. While it typically develops due to the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth, systemic conditions do play a role such as smoking and diabetes.

If left untreated, periodontal disease can have serious effects on your overall health. The relationship between gum disease and other systemic conditions like Alzheimer's and cardiovascular disease is becoming more and more clear.

A gloved hand is using a ballpoint pen to point at areas on a model tooth with the anatomy of the tooth exposed

Periodontal Treatments and Procedures

Periodontal Disease and the Significance of Having Deep Pockets

  • The earliest and mildest type of gum disease. It is characterized by symptoms including redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums, especially while brushing and flossing. By practicing good oral hygiene, which includes brushing, flossing, and having frequent professional dental cleanings, you can reverse gingivitis. While seeing bleeding when brushing and flossing can be unsettling, don't let that deter you from adopting healthy practices. After a couple weeks, the bleeding should stop with good brushing and flossing technique. Ask Dr. Estrin and his staff on good brushing techniques for a non-judgmental demonstration.

  • If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more severe form of gum disease where the inflammation extends deeper into the supporting structures of the teeth resulting in bone loss. One of the key indicators of periodontitis is the formation of "pockets" between the teeth and gums. These pockets are essentially gaps that form due to inflammation and harbor harmful bacteria.

  • Deep pockets result from the progression of periodontal disease. As the pockets deepen, they create a favorable environment for that bad, anaerobic bacteria to thrive and multiply. These bacteria lead to even more inflammation and infect the surrounding tissues. They can travel through the bloodstream to other parts of your body. Therefore, the goal of periodontal treatment is to reduce the deep pockets formed from gum disease. By reducing the pockets, you affect the environment and the type of bacteria that can thrive in your mouth. Dr. Estrin is well trained in both traditional approaches to pocket reduction such as osseous surgery and modern techniques using laser and PRF. Dr. Estrin frequently does a combination of these therapies based on the patient’s individual needs.