Advanced periodontal disease doesn't happen overnight. It's a gum and bone disease progression that takes time and occurs after a patient chooses to ignore the symptoms of the gum disease and allows the destruction to progress without treatment. For whatever reason, perhaps fear of the dentist or financial reasons, many of these patients do not seek professional dental care. The consequence, unfortunately, is the progression of their periodontal disease.

          Advanced periodontal disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. The signs and symptoms are significant bone loss with over 50% of the supporting bone gone, deep gum pockets over 5 millimeters in depth, a high incidence of periodontal abscesses, loose teeth and usually missing teeth. Acute periodontitis can be painful and antibiotics can be used temporarily to control the problem. The periodontal pockets are then eliminated and corrective periodontal surgery used to restore the normal health of the gums.

          The treatment of advanced periodontal disease begins with removing all of the irritants around the teeth so that the gums can heal. This is accomplished using scaling and root planing. Gum surgery can then be used to reduce excessive pockets so the patient can keep the teeth and gums clean. This avoids reinfection of the tissues. However, it is essential that post surgery patients take excellent care of themselves to insure continued success.

          Loose teeth from advanced periodontal disease can be splinted together to avoid the tissue irritation from excessive tooth movement. Excellent home care and regular three month professional visits are essential for keeping the teeth and gums healthy. The dentists of the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. If you need periodontal treatment, you're welcome to join our family of patients. If you wish to schedule a free dental consultation with our senior Georgia Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, call 404-874-7428. It's your first step in achieving a happy and healthy life.