Gum Disease

The American Academy of Periodontology and the European Federation of Periodontology Announce New Periodontal Disease Classification

A 2017 World Workshop on the Classification of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases and Conditions has resulted in a new classification of periodontal diseases that includes staging and grading. This is the first change in disease classification since 1999.

The new system includes both stages of diseases as well as grades. There are four stages (I- IV) as defined by disease severity and complexity of disease management. Markers for severity include interdental clinical attachment loss, radiographic bone loss, and tooth loss. Complexity for disease management takes into consideration vertical defects, furcations, and tooth mobility. The extent and distribution of the severity and complexity factors also figure into staging.

Grading has three levels (A,B,C). This includes risk factors such as smoking, presence of diabetes or heavy biofilm accumulation. Anticipated treatment response and effects on systemic health are also taken into consideration.

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, a personalized approach to patient care is essential. One goal of the new system is to provide a structure for treatment planning and monitoring of a patient’s response to therapy. The organization notes that this type of system is similar to what is used in some fields of medicine allowing providers to formulate a treatment strategy based on specific individual need.

Periodontal Disease is a Highly Prevalent Condition Among US Adults

A new study published in the July issue of JADA found that an estimated 42% of dentate adults age 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease. Severe disease was found to be most prevalent among adults aged 65 and older, Mexican Americans, non-Hispanic blacks, and smokers. The data comes from key findings of a national periodontitis surveillance project between 2009 and 2014.

Stop Gingivitis in its Tracks

Gingivitis is often a precursor to periodontal disease. Untreated bleeding and inflammation can progress leading to attachment and bone loss.

Water Flossing with a Waterpik® Water Flosser has been shown to be up to twice as effective as string floss for reducing gingival bleeding.

The Waterpik® Water Flosser is the first in it’s class to earn the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

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