Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is caused when bacteria in plaque (a sticky, colorless biofilm that forms in the mouth) builds up between the gums and teeth. When the bacteria begin to grow, the gums surrounding the tooth can become inflamed.
If left untreated, this inflammation can cause the gums and supporting bone structure to deteriorate. This can lead to gum recession or even tooth loss.
In addition, research has shown that gum disease may be associated with other diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease.
Periodontal disease is often silent, meaning symptoms may not appear until an advanced stage of the disease. It is the number one reason adults lose teeth.
Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontal disease. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line.
Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. The toxins stimulate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body in essence turns on itself, and the tissues and bone that support the teeth are broken down and destroyed. The gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets in the sulcus between the teeth and gums that become infected.
As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Often, this destructive process has very mild symptoms.
In fact, most people who have periodontal disease are not even aware of it. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.
Warning signs of periodontal disease include:
To determine if you have periodontal disease, we perform a thorough examination which includes taking radiographs to determine how much bone has been lost.
We measure the depth of the sulcus with a periodontal probe. A reading of more than 4 millimeters could be a sign of periodontal disease, and we pay careful attention to those areas. We will document and discuss those readings with you.
You and your dental professional will know how healthy your mouth is, and will be better able to notice any conditions, such as periodontal disease, that may need additional treatment.
Research has also shown, and experts agree, that there is an association between periodontal disease and other chronic inflammatory conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory diseases. Therefore, it is very important to treat the inflammation that causes periodontal disease as soon as possible to ensure that your entire body stays healthy.
If we diagnose that you have periodontal disease, we will discuss your treatment options, a periodontal maintenance schedule and proper homecare. Depending on the severity of your disease, we may refer you to a periodontist, a specialist in periodontal disease.
By paying attention to your overall oral health, we will help you maintain the health of your teeth, gums, bone and your beautiful smile.
Dr. Rehder and the entire staff are friendly and compassionate. They accommodate my needs as a patient and treat me as a personal friend. Professionally, they provide the utmost care and advice, the patient always comes first. I can’t say enough positive comments about this practice.
~Review by Eileen S.
Dr. Rehder is very professional, yet not too serious as he is doing your teeth. He makes it relaxing and is able to keep your mind away from his work (I have never liked going to the dentist, but Dr. Rehder makes the experience as close to pleasant as a dentist visit can be).
~Review by Mary Ellen M.
Thank you Dr. Rehder and Christine for the "always exciting" and "never a dull moment" orthodontist appointment. See you in two weeks to do it all over again. Ok maybe-not ALL over again.
~Review by Elena C.
I had a great experience with Dr. Rehder. He is very informative and professional. All of the staff were so nice and helpful. My overall experience was one of the best I had with a dental office. I would definitely recommend people to come here.
~Review by Paulina C.
Professional staff. Makes you feel at ease, would highly recommend.
~Review by Diane S.
Always wonderful visits at Pinefield Dental. I've been a patient since the very early 90s. The staff is my extended family & takes care of my teeth with the utmost professionalism. This is my dental home.
~Review by Kenneth C.
The doctor and staff were wonderful. My experience is always great. The staff is very caring and always professional. The hours are very convenient as well. They will be able to accommodate anyone's schedule.
~Review by Amanda C.
Richard F. Gittleson, DDS Reviews No one likes/enjoys going to the dentist, but our dentist (Dr. Gittleson) and his staff are so pleasant they help relieve a patient fears.
~Review by Patricia L.
Highly recommended, I’ve been a patient since 1983.
~Review by Charles G.
Excellent.
~Review by Dom J.
