Common Questions - about periodontology and oral health

Q: What is periodontal (gum) disease?
The word periodontal literally means "around the tooth." The most common periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to loss of teeth.

Q: How can my dentist tell if I need a periodontist?
A diagnosis of periodontitis is made by inspecting the soft gum tissues around the teeth and by evaluating the patient's x-ray films to determine the amount of bone loss around the teeth. Ask your dentist if they are regularly performing peroidontal probings.

Q: Who's at risk for gum disease?
Here are some of the most common causes of gum disease:

• poor oral hygiene
• tobacco use
• genetic predisposition for gum disease
• pregnancy and menopause
• chronic stress and poor diet
• systemic diseases like diabetes, leukemia, thrombocytopenia
  
• certain medications

Take this test to assess your risk*

Q: What signs of periodontal disease can I detect myself?

• red, swollen or tender gums
• bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating hard food
• hereditary-did your parents loose their teeth?
• persistent bad breath
• a change in the fit of partial dentures
• signs and symptoms may go unnoticed, especially in smokers
  

Q: Can periodontal disease be cured?
Periodontal disease is the primary cause of adult tooth loss, but with prompt treatment this
outcome can be avoided. For patients who are susceptible to periodontal disease; however, treatment is a lifelong process. The two most effective ways to ward off periodontal disease after successful initial treatment are:

1. good oral hygiene 
2. regular cleanings by a dental hygienist

Q: Can periodontal disease affect my overall health?
Researchers have discovered a strong link between periodontal disease and higher instances of systemic conditions, such as heart disease and stroke. In return, poor overall health from smoking and diabetes can make a person more susceptible to periodontal disease.
*American Academy of Periodontology

---

Q: What is a periodontist?
A periodontist specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease.

Many periodontists have also taken advanced training in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists receive extensive training, including 2-3 extra years of education beyond dental school. This training distinguishes a periodontist from your general dentist.

Q: What are Dr. Tillmanns' qualifications?
Dr. Tillmanns is a certified dental specialist who has graduated from an accredited dental specialty university post-graduate program and completed the requirements and examination process administered by the Royal College of Dentists of Canada (RCDC).  He attended an elite residency program at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA), in both Periodontics and Implatology.

His instructors included world-renowned professors like the late Dr. Roland Meffert (past chairman and program director of Periodontics, LSU), Dr. David Cochrane (chairman, Periodontics, UTHSCSA), Dr. James T. Mellonig (past program director of graduate Periodontics, UTHSCSA), Dr. Briam Mealy (program director of graduate Periodontics, UTHSCSA) and Dr. Robert J. Cronin (past program director of Prosthodontics, UTHSCSA).

If that doesn't impress you, see what patients have to say about their quality of care by clicking here.