Periodontal disease can be progressive and if left untreated can cause problems to the gums and supporting bone structure is irreversibly damaged.
Here are some signs/symptoms to watch out for:
-Gums that bleed easily.
-Red, swollen, or tender gums.
-Gums that have pulled away from teeth.
-Pus between the teeth and gums when gums are pressed.
-Persistent bad breath or bad taste.
-Permanent teeth that are loose, seperating, or changing position.
-Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.
-Any changes in the fit of partial dentures.
-Exposed tooth roots.

If you experience any or all of these symptoms it is good to visit your dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment and of course don’t forget to floss!

Recent research suggests there is a link between gum disease and development of cardiovascular problems, heart disease, artery blockages, and stroke. Additional research also suggests that the bacteria that causes gum disease can be a contributing factor in bacterial pneumonia which can have serious consequences as well. So you can see then, that maintaining healthy gums can be VERY IMPORTANT for all sorts of health and wellness–more connections will be discussed next time–STAY HEALTHY

Gingivitis is a term we hear about on TV and in the media all the time. It is actually the most common disease in the world. But what is it? It is an inflammatory process(like arthritis) AND an infectious process (like a staph infection) that causes the gums to lose their normal anatomy and SWELL UP with fluid and excess blood. It comes in three stages:  mild, moderate, or severe. You can see it yourself fairly easily if you look into your own mouth when you have the moderate or severe varieties. It comes from “plaque”. Plaque is a combination of bacteria, food particles, and exfoliated or dead gum cells.

Plaque can be made “worse” by the chemical nature of certain types of food that we eat. Plaque also must be controlled by two methods: what you do at home and visiting the dentist’s office on time.

Either method done alone, or poorly, will automatically lead to tooth loss and dentures. There are basic treatments in the dental office: basic regular cleanings if only minor gingivitis is present, and “deep cleaing gum treatment” if significant gingivitis is present.Significant gingivitis that is left alone or untreated turns into “PERIODINTITIS”. More about that next time. Keep smiling!

Did you know that 1 out of 3 Americans over 65 has all their teeth? Also, 1 out of 3 over 65 has some of their teeth and you guessed it–the remaining 3rd has NO TEETH!!  The number one disease in the world according to the World Health Organization is also the number one cause of tooth loss, this disease is gum disease!  There are two main types of gum disease and they are:

Gingivitis

Periodontitis

One is easy to treat and the other is a dangerous tooth killer.  We will talk more about these things next time!