Guiding the Oak Ridge Dental Group, PA, in Toms River, New Jersey, Dr. Christopher Lillo provides quality general care. One area Dr. Christopher Lillo has experience in is identifying and treating periodontal disease, which is a result of bacteria colonies below the gum line. The condition proceeds in distinct stages and begins with gingivitis, which is characterized by bleeding and swollen gums. Careful flossing and brushing can alleviate this condition and, over time, restore the gums to health.
Periodontitis (or stage-two gum disease) often occurs when bacteria are unchecked and create a chronic state of infection and inflammation. Gradually, spaces between the gum and tooth form and the integrity of the bone support is compromised. As the condition advances, pocket depths increase and surgery may be required to stop the progress of infection and bone decay.
It makes sense to check regularly for early-stage gum disease, with the dentist using an extremely small probe to measure the gap between gum and teeth. A gap wider than four millimeters indicates that gum disease exists and that treatment should be undertaken. When the gap reaches seven millimeters, the patient is at risk of permanent damage to the gums and teeth.
Periodontitis (or stage-two gum disease) often occurs when bacteria are unchecked and create a chronic state of infection and inflammation. Gradually, spaces between the gum and tooth form and the integrity of the bone support is compromised. As the condition advances, pocket depths increase and surgery may be required to stop the progress of infection and bone decay.
It makes sense to check regularly for early-stage gum disease, with the dentist using an extremely small probe to measure the gap between gum and teeth. A gap wider than four millimeters indicates that gum disease exists and that treatment should be undertaken. When the gap reaches seven millimeters, the patient is at risk of permanent damage to the gums and teeth.