PERIODONTAL DISEASE
What is periodontal disease? Periodontal (gum) disease is a chronic condition that destroys the tissues surrounding the teeth. Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss. It generally starts as inflammation of the gums, gingivitis. If untreated the bacteria which causes gingivitis will start to effect the underlying bone causing periodontitis.
Once the bacteria starts to eat away at the bone, the gums can respond in one of two different ways. When the gums swell up and enlarge, it creates a pocket, at the base of which bacteria can sit and be out of reach for the toothbrush bristles and floss which can cause destruction. Conversely, the gums can also respond to the bacteria by shrinking, leading to recession and exposure of the roots of the teeth. Both types of these cases are treated in different ways but the final goal is the same: reduce the amount of bacteria, decrease inflammation and create an environment that can be maintained over time with good patient oral hygiene and consistent maintenance visits.
Signs of Periodontal Disease: Periodontal disease may manifest as bleeding gums during flossing, brushing or even eating. Pain can, but usually does not accompany gum disease until it reaches an advanced stage. Recession of the gums is also a common occurrence in periodontal disease. Sensitivity to cold air, foods and/or liquids may accompany recession. It is not a normal part of aging for your gums to recede. Bad breath and loosening of teeth is another indicator of periodontal disease.
Treating Periodontal Disease: The goal of all periodontal procedures is the same: reduce the amount of bacteria, decrease inflammation, and create an environment that can be maintained over time with good patient oral hygiene and regular maintenance visits. When gum or bone have been lost due to periodontal disease, it is possible to regenerate these tissues with gum and bone grafting procedures. When these treatments are not possible, there are other procedures designed to restore a patients gums to health. In cases when the periodontal disease is too advanced to treat, the problematic tooth may be extracted and replaced with a dental implant.
Periodontal disease linked to other diseases: Numerous scientific journals have published reports linking gum disease and diabetes, cardiovascular disease and pre-term deliveries in pregnant women.
Diabetes: A link has been proven between control of blood sugar in diabetics and periodontal disease. Patients who have gum disease have worse control over their diabetes then those with healthy gums. As well patients with uncontrolled diabetes have more gum disease and it is often more severe.
Cardiovascular Disease: Numerous studies have shown a strong link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease. Chronic inflammation seen in gum disease can release certain proteins that are associated with cardiovascular disease. Also certain bacteria found only in the mouth have been identified in atherosclerotic plaque which form in blood vessels and lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Preterm Births: A link has also been seen between women who have gum disease and are pregnant and delivering pre-term low birth weight babies. Bacteria found in the mouth can enter the blood stream and cause premature contractions of the uterus.
Maintenance: Periodontal disease is a condition that can be controlled but not cured. Recall visits, with professional cleaning are essential to treatment and preventing recurrence of periodontal disease. The frequency of maintenance visits is customized to each patients need and susceptibility to gum disease.
