Archived Newsletter, First Ran 10/15/2011
The Silent Disease
The mouth is filled with millions of bacteria. These bacteria attach themselves to the teeth and surrounding structures and produce toxins that cause inflammation. This inflammation can result in damage to the attachment of the gums and bone to the teeth … periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease is called the “silent disease” because it is often painless, but it can lead to the loss of your teeth. Research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and many other health concerns such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, and increased risk during pregnancy.
The good news is that periodontal disease is preventable. Good oral hygiene-brushing twice a day and flossing or using another inter-dental cleaner once a day- helps reduce plaque. If allowed to remain on the teeth, plaque hardens on the teeth forming tartar, or calculus. The calculus is porous, harboring the bacteria, making them impossible to remove, even with good oral hygiene. Calculus buildup, once formed, can only be removed when teeth are cleaned at the dental office.
Regular checkups with your dentist are necessary for early diagnosis of periodontal disease. Here are several warning signs that may indicate a problem:
- Gums that bleed easily
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Pus between the gums and teeth
- Loose or separating teeth
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- A change in the fit of partial dentures
Periodontal disease is a very common disease. The treatments for periodontal disease vary depending on your individual needs. Periodontal disease is a progressive disease, and if left untreated, the condition most often becomes worse. Don’t wait....call today!
