Periodontal Disease

Periodontal diseases are a set of inflammatory disorders that cause the progressive destruction to the supporting structures of your natural teeth, resulting in premature tooth loss. These supporting structures include the bone and gum tissue that are the foundation of teeth. Bacteria found in plaque biofilms emit toxins that, in a susceptible host, cause inflammation and loss of the attachment apparatus around the teeth. This loss of attachment causes the gums and bone to separate from the teeth causing periodontal pockets to form. As pockets form, there is an influx of bacteria and their byproducts that can harden and form calculus (or tartar) underneath the gums. If left untreated, these pockets progress along the root surface until the tooth is lost. Periodontal disease, like other systemic inflammatory disorders, can often be a silent offender without obvious symptoms. Periodontal disease also has been linked to other systemic conditions that include cardiovascular disease (heart attacks, strokes, etc), diabetes, and pre-term birth, just to name a few. These diseases damage the teeth, gums, and jawbone of more than 80% of Americans by the age of 45.

Dr. Farris, Dr. Gonzalez, Dr. Sharma or Dr. Little all have specialty training in the management of periodontal diseases. This specialty training includes a 3+ year residency beyond traditional dental education. As a result, they are uniquely skilled to diagnose and treat patients with periodontal disease.

Select any of the links below for more information about the periodontal services offered by Sarasota Periodontal Associates.