Aggressive periodontitis is a severe, fast-moving form of gum disease that requires immediate attention. Unlike common gum disease, this condition typically affects younger, otherwise healthy patients. If left untreated, it can cause significant damage. At Poway Perio, we offer specialized gum disease treatment to address this condition and protect your oral health.
What Is Aggressive Periodontitis?
Aggressive periodontitis is characterized by rapid destruction of gum tissue and bone, often occurring in otherwise healthy individuals.
Here’s how it differs from other gum diseases:
- Quick progression: Bone and tissue loss occur much faster.
- Early onset: Typically affects younger patients (under 35).
- Family history: Strong genetic component, often runs in families.
- Limited plaque: Can occur even with minimal dental plaque buildup.
- Specific pattern: Usually affects first molars and incisors symmetrically.
Some common causes and risk factors include:
- Genetic predisposition: Family history plays a significant role.
- Compromised immunity: Immune deficiencies may make you more susceptible.
- Bacterial infections: Specific oral bacteria cause rapid destruction of gum/bone.
- Smoking: Significantly increases disease risk by reducing blood flow to gum tissue.
- Stress: Chronic stress weakens your body’s ability to fight periodontal infections.
In contrast, non-aggressive (chronic) periodontitis progresses much more slowly, typically affecting older adults and showing a direct relationship with plaque buildup. This common form of gum disease usually develops over years rather than months, giving patients more time to notice and treat the symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms of Aggressive Periodontitis?
Early detection is critical when treating aggressive periodontitis. Watch out for these warning signs that distinguish it from regular gum disease:
- Deep pockets: Spaces between teeth and gums quickly become deeper than 5 mm.
- Severe gum recession: Gums pull away from teeth, exposing sensitive root surfaces.
- Tooth migration: Teeth shift position or develop spaces between them unexpectedly.
- Loose teeth: Teeth move due to rapid bone loss, especially around molars/front teeth.
- Minimal pain: Despite severe damage, patients often experience little to no discomfort.
- Symmetrical patterns: Teeth on opposite sides of the mouth show matching symptoms.
- Early bone loss: X-rays reveal significant bone deterioration, often around first molars.
If you notice these symptoms, please schedule a consultation with us right away. At Poway Perio, our periodontal disease specialists will guide you through your options for advanced gum disease treatment. Our comprehensive approach includes both treating the disease and offering restorative solutions like dental implants.
What Are the Complications of Untreated Aggressive Periodontitis?
Aggressive periodontitis can lead to significant oral and overall health issues.
When left untreated, aggressive periodontitis quickly damages the supporting structures of your teeth, which can cause loose teeth and eventual tooth loss. The infection works its way into your gums, creating pockets that trap harmful bacteria and speed up bone loss. If this happens, we may need to perform reconstructive procedures to restore appearance and function.
The effects of aggressive periodontitis go beyond your mouth, triggered by the spread of bacteria and inflammation. Studies show clear connections between gum disease and other health conditions; it can make diabetes harder to control, increase your risk of heart disease, and may even contribute to head and neck cancer.
For expecting mothers, aggressive periodontitis may pose additional health risks. That’s why we emphasize catching and treating this condition early.
What Are the Treatment Options for Aggressive Periodontitis?
Aggressive periodontitis treatment options at Poway Perio include:
- Non-surgical scaling: A deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque, bacteria, and calculus from above and below the gum line.
- Root planing: A deep cleaning technique that smooths tooth root surfaces to remove infected tissue and bacterial buildup.
- Waterlase laser treatment: Advanced laser therapy that precisely targets infected tissue while promoting healing.
- Periodontal surgery: A procedure to reduce pocket depth and repair damaged gum tissue.
- Gum grafting: A procedure to cover exposed root surfaces and restore gum tissue.
- Bone grafting: A procedure to replace lost bone tissue and stimulate new bone growth.
We’ll create a personalized plan for advanced gum disease treatment, combining these approaches based on your needs and condition severity.
Take Control of Your Oral Health
Aggressive periodontitis is a serious condition requiring expert care. Our periodontal disease specialists can restore your smile and stop damage from progressing. Schedule your consultation with Poway Perio today.
