The main cause of tooth loss in adults is periodontal disease. Gum disease is caused by bacterias and other factors (tobacco use, clenching teeth, genetics, some medications.)
Periodontal disease can produce red and bleeding gums, bad breath, tooth sensitivity, loose teeth, abscessed teeth…
Patients with periodontal disease may require a special kind of cleaning called scaling and root planing. The procedure begins with administration of a local anesthetic to reduce any discomfort. Then, a small instrument called a “scaler,” or an ultrasonic cleaner, is used to remove plaque and tartar below the gumline.
The root surfaces on the tooth are then planed and smoothed. If effective, scaling and root planing helps the gums reattach themselves to the tooth structure. Additional measures may be needed if the periodontal pockets persist after scaling and root planing.