About 75 percent of all adults have some form of periodontal
disease. This problem starts with plaque-the sticky substance on your teeth. Plaque is made up of food residue, saliva, and bacteria. If you don't remove this sticky film by brushing and flossing, it can harden into a material called tartar(calculus). Tartar can't be removed by brushing and flossing. Bacteria thrive in this environment, and the bone and other tissues that support the teeth eventually loosen up. Battling periodontal disease involves more than just brushing and flossing. It also means regular dental cleanings and checkups. In addition, you need to be on the lookout for warning signs of periodontal disease.
The longer plaque and tartar are on teeth, the more harmful they become. The bacteria cause inflammation of the gums that is called “gingivitis.” In gingivitis, the gums become red, swollen and can bleed easily. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can usually be reversed with daily brushing and flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. This form of gum disease does not include any loss of bone and tissue that hold teeth in place.
When gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to “periodontitis” (which means “inflammation around the tooth”). In periodontitis, gums pull away from the teeth and form spaces (called “pockets”) that become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. Bacterial toxins and the body’s natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. Bleeding of the gums during brushing or at other times is another sign. Continual bad breath and pus between the teeth or on the gums are also warnings. In more advanced cases, there may be gaps between the teeth and gums, loose teeth, and the teeth may even change position. Eventually the teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.
Additionally there are certain Risk Factors associated with gum disease, here’s the short list:
• Smoking. Need another reason to quit smoking? Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors associated with the development of gum disease. Additionally, smoking can lower the chances for successful treatment.
• Hormonal changes in girls/women. These changes can make gums more sensitive and make it easier for gingivitis to develop.
• Diabetes. People with diabetes are at higher risk for developing infections, including gum disease.
• Other illnesses. Diseases like cancer or AIDS and their treatments can also negatively affect the health of gums.
• Medications. There are hundreds of prescription and over the counter medications that can reduce the flow of saliva, which has a protective effect on the mouth. Without enough saliva, the mouth is vulnerable to infections such as gum disease. And some medicines can cause abnormal overgrowth of the gum tissue; this can make it difficult to keep teeth and gums clean.
• Genetic susceptibility. Some people are more prone to severe gum disease than others.
Left untreated, periodontal disease can result in tooth loss. It has also been linked to more serious illnesses, such as diabetes, heart disease and strokes. Don't ignore the warning signs of periodontal disease. If you experience them, contact us. We can help you battle this disease to prevent tooth loss and keep your teeth healthy for a lifetime.
