| Allan I. Abolafia, D.D.S. |  |
Allen W. Ackerman, D.D.S. |
| THE TOOTH TRIBUNE |
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Let’s Get Serious About Gum Disease Periodontal (gum) diseases, include gingivitis and periodontitis. Both are serious infections that, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. The word periodontal means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease is characterized by chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone that support the teeth. Periodontal disease can affect just one or many teeth. The spread of the disease begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that is constantly forming on your teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed.
When left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. Plaque spreads to below the gum line. The toxins that are produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums and create a chronic inflammation. At such point, your body actually “turns on itself,” and the tissues and bones that support the teeth break down and are destroyed. The gums separate from the teeth, forming gaps. It is these spaces which then readily become infected. As the disease progresses, pockets get deeper and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. As “violent” as the description sounds, the process actually has very mild symptoms. However, ultimately if left untreated, teeth can loosen to such an extent that they have to be removed. Although the bacteria in plaque are the main culprits, there are several other major causes of periodontal disease, factors like the following which also affect the health of your gums:
In our office, when you are examined regularly by your dentist and hygienist, they are always on the lookout for any signs of gum disease. Instruction in improved oral health habits and in-office “deep cleaning” may be sufficient to treat mild periodontal disease. If your disease level has progressed, or simply to obtain another professional opinion, your dentist may suggest a consultation with our on-site periodontist. There is a wide scope of treatments. The degree and intensity depend on your particular diagnosis. Be certain that your dentists and/or periodontist will follow the best regimen of treatment for your particular circumstances and give you the best guidance for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. |
In the mildest form of the disease known as gingivitis, gums become reddened. Then they swell and bleed easily. You may not even be aware that you have gingivitis, because there is usually little or no associated discomfort. The most common cause of gingivitis is poor or inadequate oral hygiene and the disease is reversible with professional treatment and improved home care of your teeth.