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Preparing for your appointment
By Mayo Clinic staffIf you notice any symptoms of periodontitis, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment, and what to expect from your dentist.
What you can do
Consider preparing a list of questions to ask your dentist. Some questions you may want to discuss include:
- What is likely causing my symptoms?
- What kinds of tests, if any, do I need?
- What is the best course of action?
- Can I treat periodontitis on my own?
- What are the alternatives to the approach you're suggesting?
- Are there any restrictions that I need to follow?
- Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can take home with me?
- What websites do you recommend?
Don't hesitate to ask other questions during your appointment.
What to expect from your dentist
Your dentist may ask you questions about your symptoms. He or she may ask:
- When did you first begin experiencing symptoms?
- Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
- What is your oral health routine?
- What medical conditions do you have?
- What medications do you take?
- Do you use tobacco products?
Depending on the extent of your periodontitis, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for treatment.
References
- What is gum disease? Association of General Dentistry. http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=G&iid=324&aid=1251. Accessed Aug. 24, 2010.
- De Oliveira C, et al. Toothbrushing, inflammation and risk of cardiovascular disease: Results from Scottish Health Survey. British Medical Journal. 2010;340:2451. http://www.bmj.com/content/340/bmj.c2451.full.pdf. Accessed Aug. 23, 2010.
- Periodontal (gum) disease: Causes, symptoms and treatments. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/OralHealth/Topics/GumDiseases/PeriodontalGumDisease.htm. Accessed Aug. 24, 2010.
- Wilder RS, et al. Gingivitis and periodontitis in adults: Classification and dental treatment. http://www.uptodate.com. Accessed Aug. 27, 2010.
- How to keep a healthy smile for life. American Academy of Periodontology. http://www.perio.org/consumer/smileforlife.htm. Accessed Aug. 24, 2010.
- Gonsalves WC, et al. Common oral conditions in older persons. American Family Physician. 2008;78:845.
- Mouth-body connection. American Academy of Periodontology. http://www.perio.org/consumer/mbc.top2.htm. Accessed Aug. 23, 2010.
- Pocket depth reduction. American Academy of Periodontology. http://www.perio.org/consumer/pocket.htm. Accessed Aug. 24, 2010.
- Soft tissue grafts. American Academy of Periodontology. http://www.ada.org/2624.aspx. Accessed Aug 27, 2010.
- Cleaning your teeth and gums. American Dental Association. http://www.ada.org/2624.aspx. Accessed Aug. 27, 2010.
- Gum disease and diabetes. American Academy of Periodontology. http://www.perio.org/consumer/mbc.diabetes.htm. Accessed Aug. 31, 2010.
- Gum disease and respiratory diseases. American Academy of Periodontology. http://www.perio.org/consumer/mbc.respiratory.htm. Accessed Aug. 31, 2010.
- Esposito M, et al. Enamel matrix derivative (Emdogain) for periodontal tissue regeneration in intrabony defects. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2010:CD003875.
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