Periodontal Disease

If you've been diagnosed with periodontal disease, a second opinion can help you better understand your condition and treatment options. At 2nd Opinion Dental in Hellertown, Pennsylvania, Jason P. Tosto, DMD, reviews diagnoses and recommended periodontal treatments to provide an independent assessment of your oral health. Call the office or schedule an appointment online to get answers to your questions and feel more confident about your next steps.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It typically begins with gingivitis, an early stage marked by red, swollen, or bleeding gums. As the disease progresses, it can begin to break down the structures that keep your teeth stable.

Periodontal disease can develop gradually, so it’s possible that you won’t notice symptoms until significant damage has already occurred. Common warning signs include persistent bad breath, bleeding gums, gum recession, loose teeth, and sensitivity.

How does periodontal disease affect my oral health?

As periodontal disease progresses, it can cause lasting damage to the structures that support your teeth. Without proper treatment, the infection may lead to:

• Gum recession
• Bone loss around the teeth
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Tooth loss in advanced cases

The impact on your oral health can vary depending on how much damage has already occurred.

Are there different treatment options available for periodontal disease?

Yes. Treatment for periodontal disease isn't the same for everyone. In the early stages, professional dental cleanings and better brushing and flossing habits may be enough to control the condition. 

When the disease is more advanced, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning procedure, such as scaling and root planing, to remove bacteria and buildup below the gumline. 

In some cases, additional treatments or gum surgery may be needed to address areas of infection and protect the structures that support your teeth.

Treatment recommendations can vary. That’s why it’s important to seek a second opinion. It can help you better understand whether a proposed procedure is necessary.

What can I expect during a second opinion for periodontal disease?

During your appointment at 2nd Opinion Dental, Dr. Tosto will review your dental records, X-rays, periodontal measurements, symptoms, and current treatment recommendations. 

He can determine whether the proposed treatment plan is appropriate by assessing the health of your gums, measuring the depth of periodontal pockets, evaluating any bone loss, and considering your overall oral health. 

He can also determine whether a more conservative option may be appropriate or confirm that the recommended treatment is necessary to help prevent further damage.

If you've been diagnosed with periodontal disease and want an unbiased evaluation of your treatment options, contact 2nd Opinion Dental to schedule a consultation with Dr. Tosto. Call or book online now.