Treating periodontitis is far more complex than the acquisition of the infection. Treatment modalities vary according to the extent of the infective process, stage of disease, patient expectations and finances.
Determining the appropriate treatment course begins with proper diagnoses. Periodontal probing is a process of measuring the sulcus depth or periodontal pocket depth, which is a diagnostic aid in determining the stage of periodontitis(early, moderate or advanced).
Early stage periodontitis is difficult to diagnose clinically. Radiographic examination, together with clinical and periodontal examination, aids the practitioner with the diagnosis.
Early onset Periodontitis is often not diagnosed clinically due to the relative lack of gingival recession and bleeding. Radiographically, the practitioner will identify flattening of the the intercrestal/ inter proximal alveolar bone. Periodontal probes usually measure between 3-4mm in depth.
Once diagnosed the treatment plan becomes simplified. Patient education in respect to oral hygiene regime together with routine check up and cleanings. Frequency of dental check up should be every 3 months for the first year, thereafter the frequency is reduced to every 6 months. This is provided the results of the periodontal charting remain stable and there are no major clinical changes. The rate of success is largely patient depended. While your dentist will be able to provide the platform in order to control the infection, it amounts to nothing if we do don’t have patient compliance in respect to home maintenance. As preventitive measures are easier and cheaper than curative measures.
Moderate Periodontitis has a more distinct clinical appearance. Gingival recession becomes more noticeable and the crown of the teeth appear deceptively long due to the loss of horizontal bone height. Periodontal pockets usually measure between 4mm-6mm. Treatment required is that of root planning, and in some cases this may be accompanied with systemic antibiotics. As with the early stages of periodontitis compliance is essential in order to gaurantee results and success of treatment. Occasionally surgical therapies may be required, such as tissue and bone grafting.
Advanced Periodontitis presents with an unmistakable clinical picture, usually requiring specialist periodontal surgeries. Periodontal presents present with measures of 7mm-10mm. At this late stage, teeth are either hopeless or salvageable, and patients are usually referred to a Periodontologist.
In a nutshell, keep up with your routine dental check ups very 3 months, follow an oral hygiene regimen that includes brushing, flossing and the use of mouthwashes, either listerine or plax agents. We not as fortunate as sharks.
