Types of Periodontal Disease
Fountain Valley, CA
 Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is a serious oral health issue that can have some significant consequences on your mouth and your whole-body health. In addition to affecting your gums, periodontal disease can affect your periodontal ligaments and your jawbone. Bacteria can even enter your bloodstream, leading to issues such as heart disease and diabetes. There are different types of periodontal disease that can affect you. At Bijan Family Dental Practice, we can diagnose the different types and provide you with the essential treatment that you need.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. It is mild and the most common type. Gingivitis occurs when a buildup of plaque and bacteria accumulate on your teeth, which leads to irritation of the gum tissues. This irritation triggers a response from your immune system, which causes the gums to swell. Red, swollen gums that bleed when you brush and floss are major indications of gingivitis. These symptoms, however, often go unnoticed. Treatment for gingivitis is fairly simple, and your oral health can be restored with improved oral hygiene at home and professional cleanings.
Chronic Gum Disease
Chronic gum disease is a common form of periodontal disease that is characterized by swelling below the gumline and the growing destruction of your gums, periodontal ligaments, and bone. One of the biggest symptoms of this type of gum disease is gum recession, which occurs as infected tissue dies off and the periodontal pockets grow deeper. Chronic gum disease is not as easily treated as gingivitis. The progression of this type of periodontal disease can often be halted with scaling and root planing, although surgery may be needed in some cases.
Aggressive Gum Disease
Aggressive gum disease is similar to chronic gum disease, but the deterioration of your gums and other tissues occurs at a much faster rate. Your gums recede quicker, and your jawbone weakens more rapidly. However, the rate at which your tissues deteriorate is inconsistent with the amount of buildup found on your teeth. You may not have much buildup, but the effects on your tissues are more advanced. Treatments for aggressive gum disease are similar to chronic gum disease. Surgery is often required with this type.
Periodontal Disease Relating to Systemic Conditions
Certain types of systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and some respiratory issues, have periodontal disease as a side effect. This type of periodontal disease acts similarly to aggressive gum disease, where the rate of deterioration is inconsistent with the accumulation on your teeth. If your periodontal disease is related to a systemic issue, treatment for both conditions is required.
Necrotizing Periodontal Disease
Necrotizing periodontal disease is a type of periodontal disease that is common among those who suffer immunosuppression, who smoke, who suffer from malnutrition, or those who are under a great deal of stress. Necrosis, or death, of the gum tissues, happens very quickly. It affects not only the gums but the periodontal ligaments and the jawbone as well. This type of periodontal disease is rare and sometimes requires that we consult with your regular physician before beginning treatment. The type of treatment you receive will depend upon your specific situation but often includes scaling and root planing and antibiotics.
When periodontal disease occurs, it is essential that you get treatment right away. If you notice any symptoms of periodontal disease, call Bijan Family Dental Practice at (714) 421-4494 to schedule your appointment right away.
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