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What is Periodontal Gum Disease?

The term “periodontal” means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis and gum disease) is a common inflammatory condition that affects the supporting and surrounding soft tissues of the tooth, eventually affecting the jawbone itself in the disease’s most advanced stages.

What is Periodontal Gum Disease in Atlanta & Suwanee, Georgia

Periodontal disease is most often preceded by gingivitis which is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue. A bacterial infection affects the gums when the toxins contained in plaque begin to irritate and inflame the gum tissues. Once this bacterial infection colonizes in the gum pockets between the teeth, it becomes much more difficult to remove and treat. Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that eventually leads to the destruction of the connective tissue and jawbone. If left untreated, it can cause shifting teeth, loose teeth, and eventually, tooth loss.

Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults in the developed world and should always be promptly treated.

Types of Periodontal Disease

When left untreated, gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) can spread to below the gum line. When the gums become irritated by the toxins contained in plaque, a chronic inflammatory response causes the body to break down and destroy its own bone and soft tissue. There may be little or no symptoms as periodontal disease causes the teeth to separate from the infected gum tissue. Deepening pockets between the gums and teeth are generally indicative that soft tissue and bone is being destroyed by periodontal disease.

Here are some of the most common types of periodontal disease:

  • Chronic periodontitis – Inflammation within supporting tissues cause deep pockets and gum recession. It may appear the teeth are lengthening, but in actuality, the gums (gingiva) are receding. This is the most common form of periodontal disease and is characterized by progressive loss of attachment, interspersed with periods of rapid progression.
  • Aggressive periodontitis – This form of gum disease occurs in an otherwise clinically healthy individual. It is characterized by rapid loss of gum attachment, chronic bone destruction and familial aggregation.
  • Necrotizing periodontitis – This form of periodontal disease most often occurs in individuals suffering from systemic conditions such as HIV, immunosuppression and malnutrition. Necrosis (tissue death) occurs in the periodontal ligament, alveolar bone and gingival tissues.
  • Periodontitis caused by systemic disease – This form of gum disease often begins at an early age. Medical condition such as respiratory disease, diabetes and heart disease are common cofactors.

Treatment for Periodontal Disease

There are many surgical and nonsurgical treatments the periodontist may choose to perform, depending upon the exact condition of the teeth, gums and jawbone. A complete periodontal exam of the mouth will be done before any treatment is performed or recommended.

Here are some of the more common treatments for periodontal disease:

  • Scaling and root planing – In order to preserve the health of the gum tissue, the bacteria and calculus (tartar), which initially caused the infection, must be removed. The gum pockets will be cleaned and treated with antibiotics as necessary to help alleviate the infection. A prescription mouthwash may be incorporated into daily cleaning routines.
  • Tissue regeneration – When the bone and gum tissues have been destroyed, regrowth can be actively encouraged using grafting procedures. A membrane may be inserted into the affected areas to assist in the regeneration process.
  • Pocket elimination surgery – Pocket elimination surgery (also known as flap surgery) is a surgical treatment which can be performed to reduce the pocket size between the teeth and gums. Surgery on the jawbone is another option which serves to eliminate indentations in the bone which foster the colonization of bacteria.
  • Dental implants – When teeth have been lost due to periodontal disease, the aesthetics and functionality of the mouth can be restored by implanting prosthetic teeth into the jawbone. Tissue regeneration procedures may be required prior to the placement of a dental implant in order to strengthen the bone.
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Milestone Dentistry took over my Dentist of 30 years. I was pleasantly surprised by their efficiency and superior quality. Of course my Dentist, Dr. Robert Israel, would only choose the best.
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Amber M.

Milestone Dentistry review from Amber M.
Where do I start!? Everyone is so nice and very thorough! You will not be disappointed! Ann Marie my hygienist is the best in Atlanta hands down!! Dr. Huynh was very gentle and answered all my questions! 😁
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Brandon K.

Milestone Dentistry review from Brandon K.
Definitely recommend milestone! I hate the dentist to the point of avoiding them, until I knocked my crown off the week of July 4th. Milestone got me in THE SAME DAY to put a temp crown on and it was perfect, and recently went to have the permanent put on and I am very pleased.
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Felicia M.

Milestone Dentistry review from Felicia M.
It seems unnatural to say that I enjoyed my time at the dentist...but it’s true. I left my last dentist’s office because the dentist himself was dismissive of some pain that I was having. I have to say that every step of the process, from intake to x rays to cleaning and finally to dental consultation was wonderful. The entire staff was friendly. The office was spacious and equipped beautifully. Ann Marie and Dr. Huynh were a dream team! And of course Mary at the front desk takes care of your appointments and your estimates with ease. I can’t recommend this place enough!
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Randolph F.

Milestone Dentistry review from Randolph F.
The entire Staff are professional, extremely courteous and highly competent individuals!!I would highly recommend this practice to every and anyone !!
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Cynthia B.

Milestone Dentistry review from Cynthia B.
I am TERRIFIED of the dentist. I was in need of work, as reluctant as I was,I walked into Milestone. I was greeted by Mary Ra. I explained my fear, she listened, she put me at ease..introduced me to my "new friends" as she puts it before I made my appointment.It really help relieve some of my anxiety. I love love this office! AnnMarie took her time, provided me with music and a warm blanket. Cleaning was quick and painless. I would love to give this office 5k stars.
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Danyale S.

Milestone Dentistry review from Danyale S.
The staff and Dentist were extremely informative and caring when I had to get my wisdom tooth removed. This was my first visit with Dr. Huynh and he answered every question and concern that I had with extreme understanding and care during the procedure and after.
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M OI

Milestone Dentistry review from M OI
Great service! Very knowledgeable! Love that the organization caters to Special Needs young adults! Way to Go Team!
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Ellie V.

Milestone Dentistry review from Ellie V.
I can't sing enough praises of Dr. Jeffrey Wakefield. This man has a gift, super knowledgeable and talented. I've had 2 oral surgeries in 2 months with him and both experiences have been phenomenal. Today was my first time ever being put to sleep for a procedure and I was a bit nervous at first but the staff did a great job of explaining everything and answering any questions. The staff is very friendly, and while professional, they can still cut and take jokes! Lol. Dr. Wakefield is a joker himself. The office is always clean and organized. You have free bottled water and a machine that grounds coffee beans for multiple coffee options in the lobby. I highly recommend this place.
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