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Dr. Arthur Kezian |
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Dr. Narine Tashjian |
What is Periodontal (GUM) Disease?
Periodontal (gum)
diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections that,
left 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 and bone supporting the teeth.
Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth. It begins when the
bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your
teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed.
In the mildest form of the disease, gingivitis, the gums redden, swell and
bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort. Gingivitis is often
caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional
treatment and good oral home care.
Untreated gingivitis can
advance to periodontitis. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the
gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. The
toxins stimulate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body in essence
turns on itself, and the tissues and bone that support the teeth are broken
down and destroyed. Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces
between the teeth and gums) that become infected. As the disease progresses,
the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Often, this
destructive process has very mild symptoms. Eventually, teeth can become loose
and may have to be removed.
Risk Factors:
• Smoking. Need another reason to quit smoking?
Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors associated with the development
of periodontitis. Additionally, smoking can lower the chances of success of
some treatments.
• 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 periodontal disease.
• Stress. Research shows that stress can make it more
difficult for our bodies to fight infection, including periodontal disease.
• Medications. Some drugs, such as antidepressants
and some heart medicines, can affect oral health because they lessen the flow
of saliva. (Saliva has a protective effect on teeth and gums.)
• Illnesses. Diseases like cancer or AIDS and their
treatments can also affect the health of gums.
• Genetic susceptibility. Some people are more prone
to severe periodontal disease than others
Several warning signs that can signal a problem:
• Gums that bleed easily
• Red, swollen, tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste
• Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
• Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Any change in the fit of partial dentures
It is possible to have periodontal disease and have no warning signs.
That is one reason why regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations
are very important. Treatment methods depend upon the type of disease and
how far the condition has progressed. Good oral hygiene at home is essential
to help keep periodontal disease
.
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8:00am - 6:00pm
Saturday: 8:00am - 2:00pm
Tuesday & Thursday: Evening Appointments
*Any
emergency request will be given priority.
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