Periodontal Disease and Your Health
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What is Periodontics?
Periodontics is a dental specialty that involves the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the supporting and surrounding tissues of the teeth or their substitutes and the maintenance of the health, function and esthetics of these structures and tissues.
Who is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease and in the placement of dental implants. A periodontist typically has had two to three years of additional training in the diagnosing and treatment of gum disease and its associated problems. Periodontists are familiar with the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease. Moreover, periodontists can perform cosmetic periodontal procedures to improve your smile. Often, dentists refer their patients to a periodontist when their periodontal disease is first diagnosed or has become more advanced.
What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?
Periodontal diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections that, if untreated, can lead to tooth loss. The word periodontal literally means "around the tooth". Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums, bone, and tissues supporting the teeth. About 75% to 80% of Americans have some form of gum disease. Gum disease most likely affects adults over 30, but anyone at any age can be at risk for a variety of reasons.
Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth. It begins when the bacteria in plaque causes the gums to become inflamed.
With the mildest forms of disease, gingivitis, the gums swell and generally bleed easily. There is generally little to no discomfort. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and improved oral home care.
Types of Periodontal Disease
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
- Family History of Dental Disease
- Smoking
- Poor Nutrition
- Hormonal changes from pregnancy, puberty, menopause and monthly menstruation
- Illness, such as cancer or HIV that interferes with immune systems.
- Diabetes
- Some drugs and medications
- Stress
- Clenching or grinding your teeth
Types of Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis
Gingivitis, also generally called gum disease or periodontal disease, describes the events that begin with bacterial growth in your mouth and may end, if not properly treated, with tooth loss due to the destruction of the tissue that surrounds your teeth. Gingivitis generally precedes periodontitis. However, not all gingivitis progresses to periodontitis. In the early stage of gingivitis, bacteria in plaque buildup and cause the gums to become inflamed (red and swollen) and often easily bleed during tooth brushing. Although, the gums may be irritated and inflamed, the teeth are still secured in their sockets.
If detected early, gingivitis can be treated fairly easily and effectively. A small mirror and a probing tool are used to detect bleeding gums. The more areas that bleed, the more likely your gum disease is severe. Hard mineral deposits (tartar) above and below the gum line are a problem area that is usually addressed during treatment, as are areas where your gums are pulling away from your teeth and pockets have formed between your teeth and gums. Deeper pockets indicate severe gum disease. X-rays of your teeth may be taken to look for bone damage and other problems.
Periodontitis
When gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. As gum disease progresses, the gums pull away from the teeth, leaving deep pockets where plaque can grow and do further damage. It is these pockets that can become infected. The body’s immune system begins to be compromised as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. As the disease progresses, the gum and bone support of the teeth are destroyed leading to tooth loss.
Necrotizing periodontal disease
Necrotizing periodontal diseases are infections characterized by necrosis of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. These lesions are most commonly seen in advanced systemic condition including, but not limited to, HIV infection, malnutrition and immune- suppressed individuals.
What is Plaque?
Plaque is a film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums after eating foods that produce acids. These foods may include carbohydrates (starches and sugars) such as candy and cookies, and starchy foods such as bread, crackers, and cereals.
When plaque remains in your mouth for an extended period of time, it allows the bacteria to “eat away” at the surfaces of your teeth and gums. Areas surrounding restored dental work (fillings, amalgams) are particularly vulnerable to decay and are very susceptible to bacteria.
Plaque can lead to gum irritation, soreness, and redness and can lead to serious long term problems if left untreated.
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