When Should I See a Periodontist in Delray Beach?

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that begins when harmful bacteria in dental plaque attack the gum tissue surrounding your teeth.

Here's how the disease develops:

Initial Stage: Bacteria embed themselves in the gums and multiply rapidly, creating a bacterial infection that causes inflammation between the teeth and gums.

Progression: As the infection advances, it burrows deeper into the tissue, prompting your body's immune system to destroy the infected areas. This defensive response causes the gums to recede, creating deeper pockets between your teeth and gums.

Advanced Stage: Without treatment, the infection continues to spread, eventually affecting the jawbone that anchors your teeth. This can lead to loose teeth and eventual tooth loss.

When to Seek Periodontal Care

Getting a Referral

You may be referred to a periodontist during a routine dental checkup if your general dentist or hygienist discovers signs of gingivitis or advancing periodontal disease. However, you don't need a referral to schedule a consultation with a periodontist directly.

Warning Signs That Require Immediate Attention

Contact a periodontist promptly if you experience any of these symptoms:

Bleeding During Daily Activities: Unexplained bleeding while eating or brushing your teeth is one of the most common early signs of periodontal infection.

Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic halitosis that continues despite maintaining good oral hygiene can indicate periodontal disease or gum infection.

Loose Teeth and Gum Recession: If your teeth appear longer than usual, this may signal gum recession and bone loss. As periodontal disease progresses and damages the jawbone, teeth may become loose or fall out entirely.

Tissue Gangrene: While difficult to self-diagnose, dental professionals will check for gangrene in the soft tissues, alveolar bone, and periodontal ligament during examinations.

Related Health Conditions: Periodontal disease is strongly linked to heart disease, diabetes, osteopenia, and osteoporosis. The bacterial infection can spread through your bloodstream and affect other parts of your body.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Before beginning any treatment, your periodontist will conduct a comprehensive examination of your gums, jawbone, and overall dental health. Once periodontal disease is diagnosed, several treatment options are available depending on the severity.

Mild Periodontal Disease (Gingivitis)

When gum pockets exceed 4mm in depth, treatment typically involves scaling and root planing to remove debris from the pockets and promote healing. Your periodontist will also provide education on effective home care techniques.

Moderate Periodontal Disease

For gum pockets measuring 4-6mm, more extensive scaling and root planing may be necessary. This deeper cleaning is usually performed under local anesthesia for your comfort.

Advanced Periodontal Disease

Gum pockets exceeding 6-7mm are typically accompanied by significant bone loss and gum recession. While scaling and root planing remain the initial treatment approach, surgical intervention may be recommended to reduce pocket depth and restore healthy tissue.

Tooth Replacement

When periodontal disease has caused tooth loss, dental implants offer an effective replacement solution. If your jawbone provides sufficient support, implants can be placed directly. However, if bone loss is severe, your periodontist may first perform bone grafting procedures to create a stable foundation for the new teeth.

Taking the Next Step

Don't hesitate to discuss any concerns about periodontal disease, treatment options, or dental implants with your periodontist. Early intervention is key to preventing the progression of periodontal disease and maintaining your oral health for years to come.