Periodontal (Gum) Disease Therapy

Dr. Marshall Storm treats periodontal disease. Periodontal disease (or gum disease) is the inflammation of the gums and bones surrounding the teeth.

The two common periodontal diseases are:

Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease.

Periodontitis: Periodontitis is the more severe form of periodontal disease and can lead to tooth loss.

Periodontal disease is linked to plaque, which attracts bacteria. The body detects the presence of bacteria and starts to fight it. The bacteria and antibodies then invade the soft tissues of the mouth. If left too long, the invasion causes pockets to form in the soft tissues around the teeth. Food and debris collect in these pockets, attracting more bacteria, requiring more antibodies to be sent out, making more pockets form.

If periodontitis pockets are found in your gums, a series of treatments are available. If the periodontitis is not severe, scaling, root planing, and antibiotics can be tried.

If the periodontitis is more advanced, surgery will probably be required with flap reduction surgery (pocket reduction), soft tissue grafts, bone grafting, guided tissue regeneration, or tissue-stimulating proteins.

The simplest prevention of periodontal disease is to keep plaque from forming in your mouth. The best plaque prevention is a diligent daily dental routine of brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash, as well as professional cleanings every six months.

Make an appointment today for a cleaning and exam by Dr. Storm.