Periodontal disease is the process whereby the tooth’s gum and bone support (periodontal tissues) is progressively lost. This occurs when too much calculus (scale) is allowed to build up around the teeth. Over time the inflammation caused by the scale “unzips” the gum from around the tooth and the bone and gum shrinks back. This bone loss may result in increased mobility of the teeth and eventually tooth loss. We routinely screen for periodontal disease at every examination or preventative care appointment. Screening for periodontal disease is important because it is generally painless and so most people don’t know that they have gum problems until it has got to a fairly advanced stage. Dr Porzig and our hygienists treat all forms of periodontal disease. The treatment approach is tailored to each individual depending on the seriousness of the disease.
