Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
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Learn About
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.
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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.
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.Tooth Anatomy.
| 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?
The Stages of Periodontal Disease |
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What does periodontal treatment involve?
In the early stages, most treatment involves scaling and root
planing-removing
plaque and calculus around the tooth and smoothing the root surfaces.
Antibiotics or antimicrobials may be used to supplement the effects of scaling
and root planing. In most cases of early gum disease, called gingivitis, scaling
and root planing and proper daily cleaning achieve a satisfactory result. More
advanced cases may require surgical treatment, which involves cutting the gums,
and removing the hardened plaque build-up and recontouring the damaged bone.
The procedure is also designed to smooth root surfaces and reposition the gum tissue so it will be easier to keep clean.
How do you prevent periodontal
disease?
Removing plaque through daily brushing, flossing and professional
cleaning is the best way to minimize your risk.
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What is the role of the dentist?
The dentist usually detects periodontal disease and treats it in
the early stages. Some general dentists have acquired the additional expertise
to treat more advanced conditions of the disease. If the general dentist
believes that the periodontal disease requires treatment by a specialist, the
patient will be referred to a periodontist.
Is maintenance important?
Patients should visit the dentist every 3-4 months (or more,
depending on the patient) for spot scaling and root planing and an overall exam.
In between visits, they should brush at least twice a day, floss daily, and
brush their tongue. Manual soft bristle brushes are the brush of choice.
If you are pregnant and your gums are bleeding you may have Pregnancy Gingivitis
Dr. Patrick A. Palma
620 Commercial Street Mingo Junction, Ohio 43938
Telephone : 740 - 535 - 0600
Fax : 740 - 535 - 1920
Copyright © 2005 [Dr. Patrick A. Palma]. All rights reserved.