What does “Periodontitis” mean?
Periodontitis is a disease involving inflammation and damage to tooth-supporting tissues such as the gums, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. Treatment follows assessment of periodontal pockets, bone loss, and tooth mobility.
How is progression assessed?
Gum bleeding, pocket depth, and attachment loss are measured, and radiographs assess bone condition. Supporting tissues can be damaged even with little pain.
How does treatment proceed?
Plaque and tartar are removed, and home cleaning and risk factors such as smoking are addressed. Additional procedures or surgery are considered according to the deep pockets or lesions remaining after initial treatment.
Is care still needed after treatment?
Even when inflammation decreases, lost support does not necessarily return completely to its original state. Reassessment and maintenance manage the risk of recurrence and progression.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is one scaling session enough?
Treatment of deep pockets and root surfaces may still be needed after tartar removal. The response to treatment determines the next step.
Do all loose teeth need extraction?
Remaining support, infection, function, and maintainability are assessed together. Mobility alone does not determine extraction.
Questions about periodontitis
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Which areas have lost support, and how much?
Explanation and evidenceReview the examination findings for each tooth to understand the treatment scope.
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research · Periodontal Gum Disease - A choice suited to your condition
When will reassessment take place after initial treatment?
Explanation and evidenceBleeding, pockets, and hygiene are checked to determine further treatment and maintenance intervals.
American Dental Association · Scaling and Root Planing
