What’s a leading reason for tooth loss among American adults? Is it oral injury? Tooth decay? Actually gum disease, or periodontal disease as it is also called, is one of the biggest reasons why people lose teeth. As a matter of fact, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta says that half of adults over the age of 30 have gum disease in some form. What causes periodontal disease with those red, swollen gums? How does Crete dentist, Dr. Andre Rossini, provide gum disease treatment at Crete Family Dental?
Causes and Symptoms of Gum Disease
Dr. Rossini treats all stages of gum disease–from its mildest form, gingivitis, to its more destructive form, periodontitis. He tells patients that gum disease begins in the sticky biofilm dentists called plaque.
When not removed by brushing and flossing, plaque accumulates between teeth and under the gums, hardening into destructive tartar. In addition, this biofilm is loaded with bacteria which create cavities and attack gum tissue. The result is infection, inflammation, bleeding and recession. If untreated, gum disease degrades the underlying jaw bone. Teeth may loosen, drift and eventually fall out.
Amazingly, some patients with gum disease don’t notice their symptoms. Others experience many uncomfortable signs. The professional staff at Crete Family Dentistry detect gum disease during oral examinations which include periodontal probing, a measurement of gum pocket depth. When the spaces between gums and teeth measure more than three millimeters, gum disease is confirmed. These larger pockets collect more bacteria and indicate destruction of underlying tissue.
The signs of gum disease include:
- Red, puffy, bleeding gums
- Pus
- Changes in gum color
- Tenderness
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis) not relieved with brushing or mouthwash
- Changes in how teeth bite together
- Changes in the fit of dentures and bridgework
- Loose, drifting teeth
In addition, studies show links between gum disease and systemic health problems such as heart disease, arthritis, dementia, high blood pressure, stroke and Type-2 diabetes. In other words, if your gums are in trouble, your overall health is, too.
Treatment of Gum Disease
Fortunately, expert dentists know how to halt periodontal disease and make gums healthy again. For milder gingivitis, manual tooth scaling scrapes away tartar, allowing gums to heal. For more severe periodontitis, root planing, in addition to tooth scaling, smooths root surfaces so gum tissue reattaches. Often, Dr. Rossin uses antibiotics right at the gum line to heal the infection.
Of course, the best gum disease treatment prevention. That means twice daily brushing and flossing at home to eliminate plaque and tartar formation. Also, patients should see Dr. Rossini every six months for oral exams and hygienic cleanings to prevent serious problems. Kids through senior adults should consume a low-carb diet high in calcium and fibrous fruits and vegetables, and everyone should drink plenty of water to keep oral tissues moist and to stimulate antibacterial saliva.
Contact Your Dentist
Don’t wait – your teeth and gums are very important. Contact Crete Family Dentistry to schedule your six-month exam and professional cleaning. See how beautiful and healthy your smile can be.