Patient Services ~ Periodontal

What is Periodontal Disease?

The word "periodontal" literally means around the tooth. Periodontal diseases, also known as gum disease, are chronic bacterial infections that can damage the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.

The main cause of periodontal disease is bacteria and toxins in dental plaque, a sticky colorless film that constantly forms on teeth. Plaque buildup can lead to the earliest and mildest form of the disease, gingivitis. During this stage, gum tissue can swell, turn red, and bleed easily, causing little or no discomfort. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good at-home oral hygiene. Without this care, you put yourself at risk for more severe forms of periodontal disease.

Although plaque is the primary cause of periodontal disease, other factors can affect the health of your gums and bone supporting your teeth. Smoking and tobacco use, stress, medications, diabetes and other general health concerns, poor nutrition, clenching or grinding your teeth, and hormonal fluctuations can increase your chances of getting certain kinds of periodontal disease; speed up the progression of the disease; and/or decrease treatment effectiveness.

Additionally, you may be genetically prone to periodontal disease. That's why it's important for you to get involved in your dental care.

When you come for an examination please inform us of any factors that put you at risk, so that subtle changes in your periodontal health are identified and treated appropriately. If you don't know the condition of your periodontal health, make your appointment today!

Gum Disease May Relate to Heart Attack Risk

Previous studies have found the incidence of heart disease is about twice as high in people with periodontal disease, but until recently, no plausible cause has been suggested. Now, studies indicate that the most common strain of bacteria in dental plaque may cause blood clots. When blood clots escape into the bloodstream, there is a relation to increased risk of heart attacks and stroke.

People with periodontal disease (over one half the adult population) have an infection that causes chronic inflammation of the gums. Also, it is a path for these bacteria to enter the bloodstream.

A recent study describes the association between heart disease and gum disease to be at least as strong as the linkage of heart disease to cholesterol, body weight, or smoking.