Periodontal (perio or gum) disease is a bacterial infection that occurs under the gums and causes, bleeding, pain, halitosis (bad breath) and bone loss from the jaws.
It is caused by a build up of calculus, bacteria and food that collects in "pockets" under the gum line that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush or floss. Perio disease can also occur if correct brushing and flossing techniques are not used, or oral hygiene is not maintained. Also, some medical conditions and medications change the acidity levels of your saliva and in turn allow the bacteria to be produced more readily. These include:
Your dentist will be able to diagnose perio disease through examination, pocket probing, digital radiographs, and i-CAT sans. Once diagnosed, a clinical perio analysis is done. This involves an examination of the pocket depths at each tooth. If your dentist diagnoses you with periodontal disease, take it seriously. It is a condition that needs treatment urgently.Why is perio disease so bad?
Recent studies have also indicated that perio disease can have an adverse effect on you general health. Perio disease has been linked to conditions such as heart disease, premature birth and adult onset diabetes. We may refer you to a medical practitioner for further diagnosis of these conditions.How is perio disease treated?
To schedule your next preventive care visit, call us on 07 3491 8131