Patient Library
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 bacterial plaque-a
sticky, colorless film produced by normal oral bacteria. If not removed
by daily brushing and flossing, 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.
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.
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, puss 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.
Following such 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.
Prevention, Reduction, & Maintenance
General dentists are able to detect and treat gum disease in the early
stages; many also have the expertise to treat advanced conditions. Dr.
Strommer is qualified to handle both of these situations, without the patient
having to be referred to an additional specialist.
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. Strommer is also
happy to prescribe a specific home hygiene program to handle your specific
requirements.
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