Tissue Therapy

Periodontal Disease is a common (but usually preventable) ailment where the gums start to "loosen" their grip on the teeth. Even if your teeth are in great shape, they won't do you much good when they fall out! Ask about our "Soft Tissue" program designed to stop periodontal disease in its tracks and help you keep your teeth. We may also recommend homecare plaque control instruments to help curb this disease. 

Warning Signs

• Gums that bleed when you brush
• Gums are red, swollen or tender
• Gums have pulled away (receded) from teeth
• Pus between teeth & gums when gums are pressed
• Permanent teeth are loose or separating
• Change in the way your teeth fit when biting
• Any changes in fit of partial dentures
• Persistent bad breath

Stages of Periodontal Disease

Healthy

Gums have healthy pink color
Gum line hugs teeth tightly
No bleeding

Gingivitis

Gums bleed easily when you brush or when probed gently during examination
Gums are inflamed and sensitive to touch
Possible bad breath and bad taste
Gums between teeth may look bluish-red in color

Early Periodontitis

Gums may begin to pull away from the teeth
Bleeding, puffiness and inflammation are more pronounced
Bad breath and bad taste
Slight loss of bone, horizontally on x-ray
Pockets of 3-4mm between teeth and gums in one or more areas of the mouth

Moderate Periodontitis

Gum boils or abscesses may develop
Teeth look longer as gums begin to recede
Front teeth may begin to drift, showing spaces
Bad breath, bad taste
Both horizontal and angular bone loss on x-ray
Pockets between teeth and gum range from 4-6mm deep

Advanced Periodontitis

Teeth may become mobile or loose
Bad breath, bad taste are constant
Roots may be exposed and are sensitive to hot and cold
Severe horizontal and angular bone loss on x-ray
Pockets between teeth and gum now in excess of 6mm deep