Wesam Al-Joburi, D.D.S.
Periodontic Specialist
In 1981, Dr. Al-Joburi completed the three-year program with a periodontic certificate and Master of Science in Dentistry from the University of Alabama in Birmingham. He was the Associate Professor and head of the Division of Periodontics at McGill University in Montreal, Canada from 1984-1989. He served as co-chairman of the Broward Dental Research Clinic's Periodontal Division. Dr. Al-Joburi has had several articles published in dental journals and made numerous presentations at local, national and international meetings. Since 1978, he has been a member of the American Dental Association, the Florida Dental Association, the Atlantic Dental Association and is a fellow of the Academy of Periodontology. Dr. Al-Joburi has been an important part of our team since 1999. He and his wife have three children and live in the Boca area.
Periodontal Disease
When left untreated, periodontal (gum) disease can inevitably lead to tooth loss. The term “periodontal” means “around the tooth.” Therefore, periodontal disease affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth.
The infection starts when the gums become inflamed due to bacteria in plaque, a sticky, colorless film that forms on your teeth. While this is often the main cause of periodontal disease, other factors can also be attributed to affecting the health of the gums and bone, including:
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Stress
- Genetics
- Pregnancy
- Medications
- Diabetes
- Poor nutrition
Periodontal disease comes in many forms. Gingivitis is perhaps the mildest form of gum disease. While the gums become red, swollen and bleed easily, there is very little to no discomfort associated at this stage of the disease. Through a good oral hygiene regimen and treatment from your dentist, the results of gingivitis can be reversed.
Periodontitis is another form of periodontal disease and can be aggressive or chronic. Aggressive periodontitis displays rapid bone destruction and attachment loss in clinically healthy patients. Chronic periodontitis is one of the most common forms of periodontal disease and is frequently seen in adults. The stages progress slowly and can be recognized by gum recession and pocket formation.
Treatment and Prevention
In certain cases, periodontal surgery may be recommended to treat periodontal disease when non-surgical treatment is ineffective. We may advise procedures such as pocket reduction, soft tissue grafts or bone regeneration to treat periodontal disease. If a tooth has been lost due to periodontal disease, dental implants are always an option for permanent tooth replacement.
Good oral hygiene and regular visits with your dentist and periodontist can prevent periodontal disease. Daily brushing and flossing can keep plaque to a minimum and, in conjunction with professional cleanings 2-4 times a year, can keep your teeth healthy for life.