Due to this inflammation (gingivitis), the gums become looser from the teeth and molars, creating a space between the gums and the teeth. This space is also called a pocket.
In a healthy situation, the pocket is not deeper than 3 mm and does not bleed during measurement. New dental plaque can form in a pocket, causing the inflammation to move further and further into the depths. This breaks the jawbone, and the pockets become even deeper.
Just like what happens above the gums with dental plaque, it can also happen below the gums (in the pockets). Dental plaque (partially) calcifies into tartar. This progressive gum disease in which the jawbone breaks down is called periodontitis. Without treatment for periodontitis, teeth can become unstable and eventually fall out.
What does the dental hygienist do?
The dental hygienist checks the depth of the pockets with a pocket probe. The pockets are noted, but it is also checked whether the gums will bleed while measuring the pockets, and it is determined whether the teeth are already mobile. The X-rays can be used to determine whether and how much jaw bone has broken off as a result of the inflammation.
- Multifactorial
- Periodontitis is a multifactorial disease. Some important factors are:
- Hereditary sensitivity
- Bacteria composition
- Smoking
- Systemic illness and stress
Advanced Periodontitis
Only in an advanced stage of periodontitis can complaints arise. The teeth often loosen, but the receding gums partially expose the roots, which can make the teeth sensitive when eating/drinking/brushing your teeth. In addition to the fact that periodontitis is unhealthy, it also plays an aesthetic role. If the gums have receded far, it can look less beautiful. If periodontitis is not treated, so much jawbone can eventually be lost that the teeth lose their grip and fall out.
Make an appointment
Do you suffer from bleeding, sensitive, painful and/or receding gums, or do you experience a bad taste or bad breath? Or do you notice that the teeth/molars are loosening, or will the position of one or more teeth change? Then you can make an appointment with your Virginia family dentist for gum recession treatment or other services.
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