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Treatment & Prevention of Gum Disease
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What is Gum Disease? |
Periodontal (gum) disease describes bacterial growth and toxins that gradually destroy
tissue supporting the teeth. Gingivitis and periodontitis are the two main stages
of gum disease. Gingivitis involves inflammation of the gums from plaque. It can
be treated and reversed with professional cleanings, daily brushing and flossing
to remove plaque accumulation.
Periodontitis is an actual infection of the tissues and bone that support the teeth.
Deep gum pockets are formed that allow harmful bacteria to grow and cause inflammation
and infection. Untreated, periodontal diseases may eventually lead to tooth loss.
Periodontal disease often starts in adolescence and can progress painlessly for
years before becoming apparent. Bone tissue wears away from around the roots of
teeth faster than the gum tissue can follow. Hard to clean gum pockets harbor millions
of bacteria that destroy bone. As more bone support is lost around the roots, teeth
become loose and the person's breath often becomes foul.
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The Signs |
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Until their teeth become loose or actually fall out, most people are unaware that
they have periodontal disease. Nevertheless, this is the number one reason that
adults lose their teeth. More than 75% of adults have some form of gum disease.
Recent medical research has established a direct link between periodontal disease
and systemic health, including increased risk of stroke, heart attack, diabetic
complications, and serious problems pregnancy complications.
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Common indications of periodontal disease include:
- Do your gums bleed when you brush, floss or use a toothpick?
- Are your gums red, swollen and painful?
- Do you have pus coming from between your gums and teeth if you push on your gums?
- Are your gums pulling away from your teeth?
- Has there been a change in the way your teeth come together when you bite or chew
on food?
- Do your teeth look longer because of receding gums?
- Are your teeth loose?
- Do you have bad breath?
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Any of these conditions could indicate a problem requiring more than just a “routine”
cleaning of your teeth. A thorough evaluation of your gums and overall dental health,
including a comprehensive examination, X-rays, and periodontal probing may be necessary
to diagnose gum disease. The sooner that gum disease is diagnosed and treated, the
better your long-term prognosis and likelihood of preventing tooth loss.
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Treatment |
Once periodontal disease is diagnosed, it must be treated right away. The first
step is usually a procedure called scaling and root planing. This is performed by
a licensed dental hygienist, typically on two quadrants of the mouth. Tartar, bacteria
and toxins are removed with an ultrasonic cleaner to promote healing of the gum
tissue and shrink bacteria-filled pockets. For deeper pockets, a topical antibiotic
may also be used to kill bacteria.
Our experienced hygienist does not simply remove debris and build-up from the teeth.
She specializes in assessment of the supporting structures of the teeth and evaluates
patients for potential risk factors that lead to periodontal disease.
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Fluoride Varnish
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Numerous studies have found that regular professional fluoride applications prevent
dental decay for adults and children. Fluoride varnishes have been found to be more
effective in preventing decay, because they release more fluoride into the teeth's
enamel than traditional fluoride trays.
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Standard fluoride treatment (left) compared with our advanced Omnii Vanish™ white
fluoride treatment (right).
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Advantages of fluoride varnish:
- Do your gums bleed when you brush, floss or use a toothpick?
- Are your gums red, swollen and painful?
- Do you have pus coming from between your gums and teeth if you push on your gums?
- Are your gums pulling away from your teeth?
- Has there been a change in the way your teeth come together when you bite or chew
on food?
- Do your teeth look longer because of receding gums?
- Are your teeth loose?
- Do you have bad breath? .
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Periodontal Disease in Post-Menopausal Women
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Recent studies have shown that estrogen deficiency after menopause and consequent
loss of bone mineral density increases a woman's susceptibility to gingival inflammation
and periodontal disease. Dental health depends a great deal on the integrity of
the alveolar bone to which the teeth are anchored. Periodontal disease is the major
cause of alveolar bone and tooth loss in patients over the age of 35.
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Because of their increased risk and susceptibility to harmful bacteria, menopausal
women should take extra steps to control periodontal disease. Diligent brushing
and twice-a-day flossing are important, but regular visits to a skilled dental office
at recommended intervals are critical. Dr. Morgan or Dr. Rogers and our hygienist specialize in
the special treatment needs of menopausal and post-menopausal women. |
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