Understanding the 2017 Classification of Periodontal Disease: What You Need to Know
Periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease, is a prevalent oral health problem affecting millions of people worldwide. In the United States alone, nearly half of all adults suffer from some form of periodontal disease. In 2017, a new classification of periodontal disease was introduced by the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). This classification is designed to help dentists and allied healthcare professionals diagnose, categorize, and treat periodontal disease effectively. In this article, we will take a closer look at the new classification of periodontal disease and what it means for you.
The New Classification of Periodontal Disease
The new classification system aims to provide a standardized method for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease. The system divides periodontal disease into three stages- Stage I, Stage II, and Stage III- based on the severity of the condition. Each stage has unique diagnostic criteria and treatment options.
Stage I, also known as gingivitis, is the mildest form of periodontal disease. At this stage, the gums, which are the soft tissue that surrounds the teeth, become inflamed and red. The good news is that Stage I is reversible with proper treatment. Treatment options include dental cleaning, improved brushing and flossing habits, and medication such as antiseptic mouthwash.
Stage II is the moderate form of periodontal disease. At this stage, the gums start to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that can host bacteria and trigger infections. The bone and connective tissue supporting the teeth begin to deteriorate, leading to tooth loss. Treatment options for Stage II include deep cleaning, scaling, and root planing to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Depending on how severe the damage is, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Stage III is the severe form of periodontal disease. At this stage, the bone and connective tissue around the teeth have deteriorated significantly, leading to loosening of the teeth. Treatment options for Stage III include scaling and root planing, gum surgery, bone grafting, and tooth extraction.
Why the New Classification is Important
The new classification system is important because it allows dental health professionals to diagnose and treat periodontal disease more effectively. By identifying the stage, dentists can develop personalized treatment plans that are tailored to each patient’s needs and condition. This approach can help improve treatment outcomes and prevent tooth loss.
In addition, the new classification system emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention. By detecting and treating gingivitis at the early stage, dentists can prevent it from progressing to more severe stages. This approach can save patients time, money, and discomfort associated with more advanced periodontal disease.
Conclusion
The new classification of periodontal disease provides a standardized method for diagnosing and treating this common oral health problem. The system divides periodontal disease into three stages based on the severity of the condition, with each stage having unique diagnostic criteria and treatment options. Understanding this classification system can help you take better care of your teeth and gums and prevent tooth loss. If you suspect that you might have periodontal disease, talk to your dentist today to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
