Around each tooth, there is a small pocket about 1-3mm deep between our gums and our teeth. When gum disease is present (known as periodontitis), there is a loss of bone surrounding our teeth due to the inflammation of our gums. This causes deeper pockets, which are impossible to keep clean. This allows more plaque and bacteria to accumulate, leading to more inflammation, and more bone loss. Eventually there will be no more support for the tooth and it will need to be removed.
The main goal of treating periodontitis is to try to halt the disease progression. This involves regular, rigorous scaling under the gums to remove all of the tartar. By removing the plaque and bacteria, the inflamed gums will shrink away and restore the pockets back to a healthy and cleansable depth.
© Dr. E. Y. Choi Dental Office, 2020. All Rights Reserved. Information presented on this site is intended for educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation and diagnosis by a dentist. Please see your local dentist to get the appropriate diagnosis and management solution for your particular needs.
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