Periodontal Disease

There are many different varieties of periodontal disease, and many ways in which these variations manifest themselves. All require immediate treatment to halt the progression and save gum tissue and bone. Here are some of the most common types of periodontal disease along with the treatments typically performed to correct them:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the mildest and most common form of periodontitis. It is caused by the toxins in plaque and leads to periodontal disease. People at increased risk of developing gingivitis include pregnant women, women taking oral contraceptives, people with uncontrolled diabetes, steroid users, and people who control seizures and blood pressure using medication.

Chronic Periodontal Disease

Chronic periodontal disease is the most common form of the disease, and occurs much more frequently in people over 45. Chronic periodontal disease is characterized by inflammation below the gum line and the progressive destruction of the gingival and bone tissue. It may appear that the teeth are gradually growing in length, but in actuality the gums are gradually receding.

Aggressive Periodontal Disease

Aggressive periodontal disease is characterized by the rapid loss of gum attachment and of bone tissue as well as familial aggregation. The disease itself is essentially the same as chronic periodontitis but the progression is much faster. Smokers and those with a family history of this disease are at an increased risk of developing aggressive periodontitis.

Periodontal Disease Relating to Systemic Conditions

Periodontal disease can be a symptom of a disease or condition affecting the rest of the body. Depending on the underlying condition, the disease can behave like aggressive periodontal disease, working quickly to destroy tissue. Heart disease, diabetes and respiratory disease are the most common cofactors, though there are many others. Even in cases where little plaque coats the teeth, many medical conditions intensify and accelerate the progression of periodontal disease.

Necrotizing Periodontal Disease

This form of the disease worsens rapidly and is more prevalent among smokers, people who suffer from HIV, immunosuppression, malnutrition, or chronic stress. Tissue death (necrosis) frequently affects the periodontal ligaments, gingival tissues and alveolar bone.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

The use of nitrous oxide (N2O), also known as laughing gas, is an inhalation sedation technique that can be used as a way of reducing anxiety and calming nerves during dental treatment without making you completely unconscious. Nitrous oxide can be used for all routine dental procedures, including dental extractions, to “take the edge off” before the administration of local anesthetic and for the entire duration of your dental treatment.