பெரியோடான்டிக்ஸ் கேள்விகள்

What's the difference between a dental abscess and a gum infection?

A dental abscess is a localized collection of pus typically originating from an infected tooth pulp (periapical) or in severe gum disease pockets (periodontal). Gum infections like gingivitis affect the gums surrounding teeth, causing inflammation without necessarily forming an abscess. While both conditions involve bacterial infection, they differ in origin, symptoms, and treatment approaches.

I've been diagnosed with moderate to severe periodontal disease. What are my treatment options and what's my long-term prognosis?

Treatment for moderate to severe periodontal disease typically involves a multi-phased approach starting with non-surgical scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), followed by a re-evaluation to determine if surgical intervention is necessary. Surgical options may include pocket reduction surgery, guided tissue/bone regeneration procedures, and soft tissue grafts. Maintenance phase requires rigorous home care and more frequent professional cleanings (every 3-4 months). With proper treatment and maintenance, most patients can stabilize their condition and maintain their teeth, though some with advanced disease may require tooth extraction and replacement. Long-term prognosis depends on several factors including disease severity, patient compliance, smoking status, systemic health conditions, and genetic factors.