Gum Disease

~An ounce of prevention is worth a mouthful of cure

Three out of four people are affected by gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Evidenced by a chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissues, this disease is responsible for causing about 70 percent of adult tooth loss, but is also highly preventable.

Bacteria, Bad Choices, and Bad Genes

Several factors play a role in the development of periodontal disease: plaque build-up, heredity, and lifestyle choices. By far the most common and controllable factor, however, is the presence of a biofilm named bacterial plaque -a sticky, colorless film produced by normal oral bacteria. If not removed by daily brushing and flossing, these bacteria produce and release toxins in the mouth, which in turn break down the natural fibers that hold the gums to the teeth, allowing even more bacteria and toxins to invade. As this process continues, the tooth, tooth root, and jawbone may all be effectively destroyed by decay. Furthermore, when left on the teeth, plaque quickly hardens into calculus or tartar: a rough, porous substance that further irritates the gums and cannot be removed by brushing or flossing. Sadly, most of the disease progression is imperceptible to the patient.  Until it's somewhat advanced, you can't even tell you have a problem, unless you really know what to look for.

In addition to the problems caused by poor oral health habits, poor lifestyle choices can affect the body's ability to fight infection or increase irritation in the gum tissue area. Poor nutrition and poorly managed stress reduce the body's natural ability to ward off periodontal disease, as do leukemia, AIDS, and diabetes. Smoking and chewing tobacco irritate the gum tissue. And finally, some people are simply born with a diminished resistance to gum disease.

And here's the most scary part: periodontal disease and infections have been positively linked to heart disease and very likely to other serious systemic diseases.  It's because of the chronic inflammation and bacterial invasion that is what gum disease is all about.

Warning Signs & Treatment

Signs of periodontal disease 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 bite, and/or a change in the fit of partial dentures. However, since patients often feel little or no discomfort until the disease has spread considerably, frequent dental exams are extremely important.

In the event of confirmed gum disease, treatment may include simple scaling and root planning to remove calculus and plaque around the tooth and root surfaces, together with the use of antibiotics or antimicrobials, and an improved commitment to proper daily oral hygiene. In more severe cases, treatment may involve surgical cutting of the gums, removal of calculus, and recontouring of any damaged bone. This procedure smooths the root surfaces and repositions gum tissue to allow for effective hygiene. In such cases, we may team up with a Periodontist (a specialist in this kind of care).

Good News!  Today, there is a terrific method of treatment for periodontal disease called PerioProtect.  It's called PerioProtect and you can read about it on their web site <www.perioprotect.com>.  If you go there, come right back and we'll tell you more.  We are one of the first offices to hold Premier Certification in the PerioProtect method.

Following any periodontal treatment, consistent, proper oral hygiene is critical in order to sustain the results. This means twice-daily brushing with a soft nylon-bristled brush, daily flossing, and thorough tongue brushing. In some cases, small, narrow brushes called proxy brushes may be advised to clean tooth recesses more thoroughly. In addition, such patients should have a professional dental visit at least every 3-4 months for spot scaling, root planning, and a thorough exam.  If you have had PerioProtect, you are lucky, because your home care will include the simple, fast, effective maintenance system that allows you to reduce the bacterial population of your gum tissues in 5 minutes, once or twice a day.

Prevention, Reduction, & Maintenance

Some restorative dentists are able to detect and treat gum disease in the early stages; many also have the expertise to treat more advanced conditions.

Of course, the best way to prevent gum disease is to brush and floss carefully and consistently in the first place, in addition to regular professional cleanings. As a rule, our office conducts a general periodontal preventive maintenance exam during regular check-ups. Dr. Ross is also happy to prescribe a specific home hygiene program to handle your specific requirements.

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