Park
Cities Dental
"The
Art and Science of a Healthy Smile"
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Gum Disease Report
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.
Click for a short TV news story about gum disease.
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.
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 unsalvageable. That's why patients are advised
to get frequent dental exams.
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.
What is the role of the general
dentist?
The general 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 nylon bristle brushes
are the most dependable and least expensive.