Dr. Patrick A. Palma
2011 All Rights Reserved Address: 620 Commercial Street Mingo Junction, Ohio 43938 Phone ( 740 ) 535 - 0600
Procedures
Prevention
----------------------------------------Gum Disease
-----------------------------------------Restorations
----------------------------------------Child Dentistry
---------------------------------------Cosmetic Dentistry
---------------------------------------Dentures
----------------------------------------Denture Repairs
----------------------------------------Oral Surgery
----------------------------------------Orthodontics
---------------------------------------TMJ Pain
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Gum Disease
Diagnosis
----------------------------------------Treatment
-----------------------------------------Maintainence
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Prevention
Exams
----------------------------------------Cleanings
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X-rays
----------------------------------------Sealants
---------------------------------------Fluoride
--------------------------------------Mouthguards
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Healthy Gums
----- pink color, no bleeding
Gingivitis
----- red gums, inflamed bleeding,
----- bad breath, bad taste
Early Periodontitis
----- gums recede, bleeding,
-----puffiness, bad odors and taste
Moderate Periodontitis
----- gum abscesses, receding gums,
----- drifting of teeth, bad odos and taste
Advanced Periodontitis
----- teeth are loose, constant bad breath
-----abcesses, teeth sensitive, bone loss
Gum Disease and the links to Major Illnesses
Are You At Risk ?
Periodontal ( Gum ) Disease
What is periodontal (gum) disease?
Periodontal disease or gum disease, a chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissue, is the major cause of about 70 percent of adult tooth loss, affecting three out of four persons.
What causes periodontal disease?
Bacterial plaque a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on the teeth is recognized as the primary cause of periodontal disease. If plaque isn't removed each day by brushing and flossing, it hardens into a rough, porous substance called calculus (also known as tartar).Toxins (poisons) produced and released by bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. These toxins cause the breakdown of the fibers that hold the gums tightly to the teeth, creating periodontal pockets which fill with even more toxins and bacteria. As the disease progresses, pockets extend deeper and the bacteria move down until the bone that holds the tooth in place is destroyed. The tooth eventually will fall out or require extraction
Healthy Gums Advanced Gum Disease
Are there other factors?
Yes. Genetics is also a factor, as are lifestyle choices. A diet low in nutrients can diminish the body's ability to fight infection. Smokers and spit tobacco users have more irritation to gum tissues than those who don't, while stress can also affect the ability to ward off disease. Diseases that interfere with the body's immune system, such as leukemia and AIDS, may worsen the condition of the gums. In patients with uncontrolled diabetes, where the body is more prone to infection, gum disease is more severe or harder to control.
What are the warning signs of periodontal disease?
Signs include red, swollen or tender gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, gums that pull away from teeth, loose or separating teeth, pus between the gum and tooth, persistent bad breath, change in the way teeth fit together when the patient bites, and a change in the fit of partial dentures. While patients are advised to check for the warning signs, there might not be any discomfort until the disease has spread to a point where the tooth is unsalvagable. That's why patients are advised to get frequent dental exams.
The Stages of Gum Disease
Dr. Patrick A. Palma
Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
( 740 ) 535 - 0600