Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease affects the gums, bone and other supporting tissues of the teeth. Although most individuals suffer gum inflammation from time to time, around 10% of the population appear to suffer from the more severe forms of the disease which cause loss of supporting bone. This group appears to be at greatest risk of losing teeth through periodontal disease. It is caused by the bacteria which regularly collect on the teeth.
Around 10% of the population is susceptible. The British Society of Periodontists knowledge is improving all the time of why this is; although 3 major factors are thought to be responsible. Family history, stress and smoking are all important risk factors. Stopping smoking is an important part of reducing the risk of developing the disease. Certain general diseases such as diabetes may also make an individual more susceptible.
What is periodontal surgery?
Periodontal surgery is treatment for any gum disease that remains after your dentist has cleaned your teeth. Gum disease is caused by the germs (bacteria) which live in your mouth. The bacteria stick to your teeth, irritate the gums and make them bleed. Gum disease can eventually destroy the gum and bone which support your teeth.
You will have already received some treatment for your gum disease. This would have included teaching you how to clean your teeth thoroughly to remove the germs (plaque) above the gum. The dentist or hygienist will have cleaned (scaled) your teeth to remove tartar and plaque above the gum. But you still have some gum disease remaining which needs periodontal surgery to treat the gums and surrounding teeth and bone.