Frequently Asked Questions

UNDERSTANDING PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Periodontal (gum) diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are bacterial infections that attack the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Interestingly, the word periodontal literally means "around the tooth." Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth, beginning with the formation of bacterial plaque (a film that constantly forms on your teeth) causing the gums to become inflamed.

Left untreated, these serious infections can lead to tooth loss. In fact, periodontal disease is one of the major causes of tooth loss in adults.

Gingivitis is the mildest form of the disease, often presenting with red, swollen gums that bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate home care. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral hygiene.

Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. With time, the bacteria in the plaque continue to spread and grow below the gum line, releasing toxic substances that further irritate the gums. The body tries to wall off this infection and essentially turns on itself, resulting in additional destruction of bone and tissue support around the teeth. The tissues separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Because this process often presents with very mild symptoms, you may not even be aware of the condition until it has caused a significant amount of damage. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.

The main Cause of Periodontal Disease is bacterial plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. However, other factors can also affect the health of your gums.

Besides the negative effect on your general health, smoking can place people at an increased risk for periodontal disease. In fact, studies have shown that tobacco use may be one of the most significant risk factors in the development and progression of periodontal disease.

Genetics may also impact the development of periodontal disease. Research suggests that up to 30% of the population may be genetically susceptible to gum disease. If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, it may be beneficial for family members to have a periodontal examination to help detect any evidence of problems. Early treatment may help them keep their teeth healthy and comfortable for a lifetime.

A woman’s health needs are unique. Hormonal changes during puberty, menopause, menstruation or pregnancy, can affect many of the tissues in your body, including your gums. Your gums can become sensitive and react strongly to hormonal fluctuations, making you more susceptible to gum disease. Recent studies suggest that pregnant women with gum disease are seven times more likely to deliver preterm, low birth weight babies.

Stress has been linked to many serious health problems, and it is considered a risk factor for periodontal disease. Research demonstrates that stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infections, including periodontal diseases.

Some medications can affect your oral health, including common prescriptions for oral contraceptives and heart medications.

Clenching or grinding your teeth can put excess force on the supporting tissues of the teeth and add to the destructive forces of periodontal disease. If you think you grind your teeth at night or clench during the day, you might want to have us make you a bite guard to help protect your teeth.

If you have diabetes, you are at higher risk for developing infections, including periodontal diseases. According to the American Diabetes Association, approximately 16 million Americans have diabetes; however, more than half have not been diagnosed with this disease.

Poor nutrition and a variety of systemic diseases can compromise the body's immune system and worsen the condition of your gums.

Research is suggesting that there is also a strong Periodontal-Systemic Connection. Periodontal bacteria (germs) can enter the blood stream and begin new infections in different parts of the body. Periodontal diseases can contribute to the development of heart disease, the nation’s leading cause of death, and increase the risk of stroke. Pregnant women with gum disease are seven times more likely to deliver preterm, low birth weight babies. Periodontal diseases can also pose a serious threat to people whose health is compromised by diabetes, respiratory diseases, or osteoporosis.

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