As your Portland, Oregon dentist, we want you to be well informed about gum disease and how it can affect your health.  You can control your dental health by knowing what causes gum disease and how we treat it. Let’s start with the basics.

WHAT DO THE NUMBERS MEAN?

When we examine your teeth we use an instrument called a periodontal probe. It measures the gap between the pocket of your gum and its nearby tooth. The gap is measured in millimeters. We place the probe at the bottom of the pocket. This gives us a number for how deep the pocket is. We measure the gap for each tooth. Healthy gums usually measure between 1-3 mm.

However, when a tooth has signs of gum disease the tissue begins to detach from the tooth. This creates a deeper pocket. This means the probe goes deeper than normal. A gap that is 4 mm or higher indicates various stages of disease. For example, you may have some 2 and 3's on your exam. If you have any 4's you have some gum disease that needs immediate attention. Even if you have a normal pocket but it bleeds with brushing, flossing or probing, there is inflammation and should be discussed with your dentist or hygienist.

STAGES OF GUM DISEASE

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. It is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene. It causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort at this stage. Unfortunately this means that some people ignore the signs because they do not yet feel any pain.

Periodontal Disease

Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontal disease.  Consequently the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth. Bacteria can then more easily destroy the underlying bone that supports the teeth. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed. It can also be painful from sore, bleeding gums and painful chewing problems. Periodontal disease may also require dental surgery.

Diseases in your body

Even more serious, the infection of your gum disease can spread and lead to additional damage to your body. Research today is leading to indicate that other parts of the body can become affected through the bloodstream.

Gum disease is now being linked to heart disease, certain cancers, Alzheimer’s disease and other circulatory system issues.

TREATMENTS FOR GUM DISEASE

Gingivitis

• Professional dental cleaning,
• Dental restoration, if needed.
• Ongoing care.

Periodontal Disease (non-surgical)

• Scaling
• Root planing
• Antibiotics

Periodontal Disease (Surgical)  Advanced periodontal disease may require surgical treatment.

• Flap surgery (pocket reduction surgery).
• Soft tissue grafts.
• Bone grafting.
• Guided tissue regeneration.
• Tissue-stimulating proteins.

To sum it up, the health of your gums is important for your overall health. Firstly, healthy gums are needed to support your teeth. Your teeth are important for properly chewing and digesting your food and for how you speak. Secondly, disease of your gums can lead to other diseases in your body. Therefore, if you have any numbers on your dental exam of 4 or above it is vital you start treatment immediately.

CREATING HEALTHY AND BEAUTIFUL SMILES

Here in our dental office in Portland we are dedicated to giving you personalized treatment. Our mission is to create healthy and beautiful smiles for all of our patients. With that in mind, we are alert to any situation that could lead to an unhealthy mouth for our patients. So help us give you the best treatment possible by coming in for your regular visits and exams.

Your Portland Dentist,

Dr. Dave Carothers