Have you ever wondered why gum disease is such a threat to your oral health? Did you know that there are different types of gum disease? Periodontal disease can advance into a serious medical condition that requires professional treatment. Your Encinitas periodontist, Dr. Ann Kania explains.

Gingivitis

This common type of gum disease often produces very mild symptoms. Patients who have gingivitis may find blood on their toothbrush or notice that their gum tissue appears swollen. Gingivitis is usually caused by poor oral hygiene. Fortunately, with improved oral hygiene methods and professional treatment, gingivitis is a reversible form of gum disease.

Periodontitis

More serious than gingivitis, periodontitis poses serious risks to a patient’s oral health. There are different forms of periodontitis such as chronic periodontitis and aggressive periodontitis. Once gum disease progresses to an advanced stage, the condition cannot be reversed.

Chronic periodontitis – The most common form of advanced gum disease is chronic periodontitis. Characteristics of chronic periodontitis include the formation of periodontal pockets between teeth and gums and gum line recession. The bacterial infection associated with chronic periodontitis progressively destroys teeth and bones by weakening the supporting structures of teeth over time. Although some children develop chronic periodontitis, this type of gum disease usually affects adults.

Aggressive Periodontitis – Similar to chronic periodontitis, this form of advanced gum disease may affect one or more areas of the mouth. Aggressive periodontitis destroys the bond between teeth, bone, and gums more rapidly than chronic periodontitis. In many cases, patients with aggressive periodontitis are healthy except for the presence of gum disease. Aggressive periodontitis affects younger patients more frequently than adults.

Contributing Factors – Numerous factors can contribute to the development of periodontal disease.  Certain medical conditions such as diabetes and immune disorders increase the risk for this disease.   Endodontic (root canal) infections are sometimes combined with periodontal lesions.  Smokers suffer more periodontal attachment loss and toth loss than non-smokers.  Medical, family and social histories are gathered to assess contributing factors.

Treating Gum Disease in San Diego

Although advanced gum disease cannot be cured, the infection can be managed with professional treatment. Dr. Ann Kania addresses periodontal disease with the latest technology. Placing a priority on patient comfort and oral health, our team will help you get your oral health back on track.

To schedule an appointment, contact our Encinitas periodontist office at (760) 642-0711. We serve patients from La Costa, Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar, Oceanside, San Marcos, and the neighboring communities near San Diego.