Periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis and gum disease) is a progressive disease that affects the supporting gum and jawbone tissue. If left untreated, periodontal disease can result in loose, unstable teeth and even tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the developed world.
Gum disease begins when the toxins found in plaque start to attack the soft tissue surrounding the teeth. This bacteria embeds itself in the gum and rapidly breeds, causing a bacterial infection. As the infection progresses, it burrows deeper into the tissue, causing inflammation or irritation between the teeth and gums.
The typical immune response is to destroy the infected tissue, which is why the gums recede. The resulting pockets between the teeth deepen and, if left untreated, the tissue that makes up the jawbone also recedes causing unstable teeth and tooth loss.
There are many different varieties of periodontal disease and many ways in which these variations manifest themselves. All require immediate treatment by a periodontist to halt the progression and save the gum tissue and bone. Here are some of the most common types of periodontal disease along with the treatments typically performed to correct them:
Gingivitis is the mildest and most common form of periodontitis. It is caused by the toxins in plaque and leads to periodontal disease. People at increased risk of developing gingivitis include pregnant women, women taking birth control pills, people with uncontrolled diabetes, steroid users, and people who control seizures and blood pressure using medication.
Treatment: Gingivitis is easily reversible using a solid combination of home care and professional cleaning. The dentist may perform root planing and deep scaling procedures to cleanse the pockets of debris. A combination of antibiotics and medicated mouthwashes may be used to kill any remaining bacteria and promote the good healing of the pockets.
Acute periodontal disease is a severe form of gum disease. Also known as acute periodontitis or acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG), it’s characterized by inflammation and infection of the gums, which can cause significant pain and discomfort.
Acute periodontal disease is caused by a bacterial infection affecting the tissues surrounding the teeth. Factors that can contribute to the development of this condition include poor oral hygiene, smoking, stress, malnutrition, and a weakened immune system.
Symptoms of acute periodontal disease can include severe pain, bleeding gums, bad breath, a metallic taste in the mouth, gum swelling and redness, and the formation of painful ulcers on the gums. If left untreated, this condition can lead to tooth loss and other serious complications. Treatment for acute periodontal disease typically involves deep cleaning and antibiotics to control the bacterial infection. Pain relief medications and mouthwashes may also help manage symptoms.
Chronic periodontal disease is the most common form of the disease and occurs much more frequently in people over 45. Chronic periodontal disease is characterized by inflammation below the gum line and the progressive destruction of the gingival and bone tissue. It may appear that the teeth are gradually growing in length, but in actuality, the gums are gradually recessing.
Treatment: Unfortunately unlike gingivitis, chronic periodontal disease cannot be completely cured because the supportive tissue cannot be rebuilt. However, the dentist can halt the progression of the disease using scaling and root planing procedures in combination with antimicrobial treatments. If necessary, the periodontist can perform surgical treatments such as pocket reduction surgery and also tissue grafts to strengthen the bone and improve the aesthetic appearance of the oral cavity.
Aggressive periodontal disease is characterized by the rapid loss of gum attachment, the rapid loss of bone tissue, and familial aggregation. The disease itself is essentially the same as chronic periodontitis but the progression is much faster. Smokers and those with a family history of this disease are at an increased risk of developing aggressive periodontitis.
Treatment: The treatments for aggressive periodontal disease are the same as those for chronic periodontal disease, but aggressive periodontal disease sufferers are far more likely to require surgical intervention. This form of the disease is harder to halt and treat, but the dentist will perform scaling, root planing, antimicrobial, and in some cases laser procedures in an attempt to save valuable tissue and bone.
Periodontal disease can be a symptom of a disease or condition affecting the rest of the body. Depending on the underlying condition, the disease can behave like an aggressive periodontal disease, working quickly to destroy tissue. Heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory disease are the most common cofactors, though there are many others. Even in cases where little plaque coats the teeth, many medical conditions intensify and accelerate the progression of periodontal disease.
Treatment: Initially, the medical condition which caused the onset of periodontal disease must be controlled. The dentist will halt the progression of the disease using the same treatments used for controlling aggressive and chronic periodontal disease.
This form of the disease rapidly worsens and is more prevalent among people who suffer from HIV, immunosuppression, malnutrition, chronic stress, or choose to smoke. Tissue death (necrosis) frequently affects the periodontal ligament, gingival tissues, and alveolar bone.
Treatment: Necrotizing periodontal disease is extremely rare. Because it may be associated with HIV or another serious medical condition, it is likely the dentist will consult with a physician before commencing treatment. Scaling, root planing, antibiotic pills, medicated mouth wash, and fungicidal medicines are generally used to treat this form of the disease.
If you have any questions or concerns about the different types of periodontal disease and treatments, please ask your dentist.
The best dental experience ever from the time I walked through the door until it was time to leave. The staff is absolutely amazing, very thorough, comforting, and made sure to let me know step by step what was going on during my appointment. They take their time, nothing is rushed and that let me know they truly care about my dental health. This was my first time at this office and I can say I have found the dentist home for me.
My visit as a new patient was top tier!! The customer service and the professionalism in this office was the best. Dasia took my X-rays and pictures of my teeth. She was very kind, communicative and made me feel welcomed. Crystal was my dental hygienist. She took her time and was very thorough. She provided me with education regarding my treatment plan and was able to give feedback based on my current regimen. I saw Dr. Evans for my exam and she was very thorough and pleasant. Everyone made me feel welcomed at this office. It was a very clean environment. This has been the best dental experience I’ve had. I can’t wait to return!
Love love love this dental office… The staff are very professional, nice and knowledgeable. I love the warm feeling you get upon arrival… The office and equipment is state of the art… Ten STARS!
I love being a patient here! The office is very nice and clean. The staff is amazing! They were extremely kind, patient, and generous when I brought my 91 year old grandma there for some dental work. I highly recommend!
I have been coming to this practice for about 2-3 years, and I have always had a great experience from the receptionist, whether it’s when I call or when I arrive in person. All the support staff and Dr. Jarrett and the other dentists are wonderful. Plus, the office smells great and looks fabulous. So, if you are looking for a new dental practice, call for an appointment!
Dr. Manning is phenomenal and extremely ethical. She repaired work that another dentist did when she could have told me I required the work to be completely redone as another dentist did. Her office is inviting. Her staff is kind, professional, and efficient. She’s def the only dentist I’ll see going forward. I also love Crystal her hygienist. Overall, this is an ethical and high-quality practice that provides the highest standards of care.
Switched to JLM Dental Studio from a prior local Smyrna dentist office several years ago. JLM’s office location is welcoming and organized. Bright environment, exceptionally designed. You don’t expect a dentist office to have a fun “vibe”, right? They captured one.
Dr. Jarrett is my primary dentist. I’ve gone through multiple treatment services, fillings, extraction, general cleaning, and recently Invisalign. I don’t question what treatments are recommended nor do I feel I’ve ever received unnecessary services for a cash grab. Dr. Jarrett focuses on overall oral health education vs vanity. Dr. Mel is equally a great addition to the team. Can’t go wrong either way. Pleased with my experiences which include multiple referrals. Grade A!
I love this dentistry office!! Dr. Manning and her staff are so professional. Very thorough and the best experience I’ve ever had at a dentist’s office!! They have me as a patient for life!!
Dr. Manning is a very knowledgeable, professional, and caring dentist. She has a great patient-interaction manner. I am thrilled that Star is back. The front office staff is very professional. I’ve been a patient of Dr. Manning’s for 4 years. I am a VERY satisfied patient.
Dr. Jarrett and her staff are amazing! I had a problem with my crown twice and without hesitation they got me and took care of the problem! I especially want to let people know that Tiffany is phenomenal! Her customer service skills make you so comfortable! Thanks again for such great service! I highly recommend JLM Dentistry.
I absolutely love my dentist’s office. From the front desk, the hygienist (Crystal), and Dr. Jarrett, I am in total peace every time. Anytime you sleep when you are getting your teeth cleaned or cavities filled, that surely speaks to the magnitude of comfort, trust, and ambiance in the office. Thank you JLM Dental Studio.
I’m never a huge fan of going to the dentist (not sure who is), but JLM Dental Studios was amazing. It was easy to book my first appointment, the office was extremely clean and quiet, and the staff were all very welcoming and professional. I will definitely be making JLM my dentist’s office moving forward.
Crystal did an awesome job on my cleaning! The exam was the most thorough I’ve ever had. I’ll definitely be back!
My visit today at JLM dental studios was pleasant. The front office staff (Monica) is friendly & polite. Monica went above & beyond trying to get my appt. rescheduled when there was a cancellation. Teanna the hygienist assistant was kind & helpful with explaining the modern tech the office has to offer. Crystal the hygienist is sweet & patient care oriented. Highly recommend!!
Crystal C. is so awesome. She explained in detail what I need to do to get back on track with my treatment plan… Thank you for your talent and expertise!!
First, let me say that I appreciate the design of this office. It’s super chic and glam! The staff is super friendly and accommodating. I get extreme anxiety when visiting the dentist, but the assistants and hygienist were gentle and patient with me. My dentist was not Dr. Jarrett as she was fully booked but the other dentist was very friendly and helpful. I did, however, get botox injections from Dr. Jarrett, and she was amazing and quick with the procedure. I can’t wait to return. Can’t believe I said that about a dentist’s office.
Lovely and pleasant experience. Friendly and informative staff. Came in for a deep cleaning and filling and didn’t feel a thing. I definitely will be coming back!
Great experience. Very personable staff. Relatable, and when it was time to get down to work, they did…and in a competent fashion!
Very professional, thorough, and friendly office! I really like the hygiene and covid safety protocols, the friendly staff, the thorough cleaning, and the billing explanation. The staff (Monique), as well as Ginny, were very nice! This dentist’s office makes me have less trepidation about coming to the dentist. Thank you!
I absolutely love my dentist office,. From the front desk, hygienist (Crystal) and Dr. Jarrett I am in total peace every time. Anytime you sleep when you are getting your teeth cleaned or cavities filled, that surely speaks to the magnitude of comfort, trust and ambiance in the office. Thank you JLM Dental Studio.
