Periodontal Disease

You may have periodontal disease and not even know it. And that's the problem. Periodontal disease (also known as gum disease) can silently eat away at your gum tissue and tooth-supporting bone until it becomes so advanced you risk tooth loss. It may also be linked to other health problems such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and bacterial pneumonia.

What causes periodontal disease

Periodontal disease in its earliest stage is known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that adheres to your teeth. If plaque is not removed, gums become irritated and, over time, begin to separate from teeth. Pockets form around the teeth, giving bacteria more opportunity to grow and cause further inflammation.

The good news is that gingivitis is usually reversible with regular professional cleanings. But left untreated, it can progress into advanced periodontitis which can destroy gums and bone and lead to tooth loss.

Signs of periodontal disease

Even though periodontal disease is a serious infection, it is not always painful and that's why you may not even know you have it. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, call us for an appointment today:

• Gums that bleed easily
• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste in your mouth
• Loose or separating teeth
• Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Any change in the fit of dentures

Factors that may increase your risk include tobacco use, diabetes, bridges that no longer fit, crooked teeth, defective fillings, pregnancy and oral contraceptives.

Preventing periodontal disease

You can prevent periodontal disease by thoroughly brushing and flossing your teeth, eating a balanced diet, and visiting our offices for a professional cleaning twice a year. Professional cleaning is the only way to remove built-up plaque and tartar.

We can treat the early stages of periodontal disease with tooth scaling and root planing, enzyme suppression and aggressive antibacterial therapy. If those treatments fail to resolve the problem, surgery may be required, and we will refer you to a periodontal specialist for further evaluation.

To learn more about healthy oral habits that can give you and your family a lifetime of beautiful teeth, visit our Total Dental Fitness page.

If you would like more information about treatment for periodontal disease, call 936-756-3611 or send us an e-mail. To schedule an appointment, go to Make An Appointment now.

Source: American Dental Association (www.ada.org)