Dr. Anne A. Nicholas

Periodontitis (peri = around, odont = tooth, -itis = inflammation) refers to a number of inflammatory diseases affecting the periodontium — that is, the tissues that surround and support the teeth. Periodontitis involves progressive loss of the alveolar bone around the teeth, and if left untreated, can lead to the loosening and subsequent loss of teeth. Periodontitis is caused by bacteria that adhere to and grow on the tooth’s surfaces, along with an overly aggressive immune response against these bacteria. A diagnosis of periodontitis is established by inspecting the soft gum tissues around the teeth with a probe and radiographs by visual analysis, to determine the amount of bone loss around the teeth. Specialists in the treatment of periodontitis are periodontists; their field is known as “periodontology” and “periodontics”. (Wikipedia)

Chronic Periodontitis, the most common form of the disease, progresses relatively slowly and typically becomes clinically evident in adulthood. Aggressive Periodontitis is a rarer form, but as its name  implies progresses more rapidly and becomes clinically evident in adolescence. Although the different forms of periodontitis are all caused by bacterial infections, a variety of factors affect the severity of the disease. Important “risk factors” include smoking, poorly-controlled diabetes, and inherited (genetic) susceptibility.[1]

This radiograph shows significant bone loss between the two roots of a tooth.  The spongy bone has receded due to infection under tooth reducing the bony support for the tooth. 

Are you at risk for Periodontal Disease?  Did you know that millions of people don’t realize they are infected with this disease?  Do you understand if periodontal disease is not treated, this will result in both tooth and bone loss, which can be expensive to repair.

It is important to seek dental advice from a Periodontists, like Dr. Anne A. Nicholas, who can not only advice; Dr. Nicholas can do a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis to determine if you are at risk for this disease.  Don’t let gum disease or missing oral structures compromise your good health.  Contact Dr. Anne. A. Nicholas, for a consultation to evaluate your periodontal concerns.

[1] Zadik Y, Bechor R, Shochat Z, Galor S (April 2008). “Ethnic origin and alveolar bone loss in Israeli adults” (in Hebrew). Refuat Hapeh Vehashinayim 25 (2): 19–22, 72. PMID 18780541.

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