Periodontal disease is a chronic infection in the gums and bone that support your teeth. Roughly 75% of adult tooth loss is due to untreated periodontal infections.

What is the difference between a dentist and a periodontist?

A general dentist is trained to detect and treat the early stages of periodontal disease. A periodontist is a dentist with advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease. They also perform other surgical periodontal treatments, such as dental implants.

Do regular dental checkups prevent periodontal infection?

The best way to prevent periodontal disease is to maintain excellent oral hygiene. Still, some patients with proper oral hygiene habits and regular dental checkups can have sudden bursts of infection—despite the fact that their dentist took excellent care of their teeth! Besides poor oral hygiene, infection can be caused by smoking, stress, diet, age, illness or from genetic factors.

Why treat periodontal infection right away?

The longer you wait, the more damage periodontal disease can create. The sooner you take care of it, the greater the likelihood that you will avoid sustained damage to your teeth and bone. You may also help to avoid more serious diseases such as heart attacks and diabetes.

Can periodontic disease really cause heart attacks or diabetes?

The links between periodontic disease and systemic disease are well documented. Gum disease is a serious infection that can release bacteria into the bloodstream. Studies have shown that people with periodontal disease are roughly three times more likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke. Research indicates gum disease may be more important than obesity or age as a factor in the onset of diabetes in adults. There are also negative implications for pregnant women, persons with respiratory disorders, and much more.

What are some of the signs of periodontal disease?

Perhaps surprisingly, pain is typically not the first sign of periodontal disease. Initial symptoms might include: red, swollen, itchy, receding or tender gums, bad breath, loose teeth and/or teeth that have shifted their position. If you notice any of these signs, we recommend you immediately get a periodontal evaluation by your general dentist.

How is periodontal disease treated?

Fortunately, most patients can be treated with a process called scaling and root planning – a non-surgical cleaning under the gums. More advanced disease may require surgical procedures.

Dental Implants—Pros and Cons

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is an artificial root for a tooth made from titanium. Once a periodontist inserts the implant, your dentist then places a crown on the titanium root. Implants can also be used to anchor bridges and dentures.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

A dental implant looks and feels like a natural tooth, and typically lasts a lifetime. Implants have the best appearance and comfort, require no special day-to-day maintenance, and allow you to chew food naturally. Other options, such as bridges, partial dentures and full dentures, typically require attaching appliances to neighboring teeth, can require tedious maintenance procedures, and will probably have to be replaced at some point. Your general dentist is the best judge of which option is most appropriate for you.

What are the cons?

Dental implants are more expensive than bridges and conventional dentures. However, they last longer than bridges and dentures.

Is everyone a candidate for implants?

Many people are good candidates for implants; your general dentist can evaluate you to determine your eligibility.

Dr. Charu Chandra

North Hills Periodontics

Practice Limited to Periodontics and Implant Dentistry

Dr. Charu Chandra

North Hills Periodontics

222 South Clay Street

Zelienople, PA 16063

info@northhillsperio.com

(724) 453-0234