Periodontal Disease: How To Protect Your Teeth And Gums

Millions of people
have periodontal (gum) disease and many don't even know they have it. Are
you one of them?



Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support your
teeth. It is caused by the plaque-forming bacteria in your mouth. While
brushing and flossing removes most plaque, it is impossible to remove all
of it. The remaining plaque hardens into tartar. When this tartar forms
under the gumline, it can irritate and infect the gums, leading to gum
disease.



The good news is that periodontal disease is easily preventable. The
Pennsylvania Dental Association (PDA) reminds the public about the
importance of maintaining healthy teeth and gums.



Periodontal disease has two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. The
first stage, gingivitis, is the early stage of periodontal disease, where
the bacteria get in between the tooth and gum, causing inflammation. During
this early stage, daily brushing and flossing can likely reverse
periodontal disease.



If left untreated, periodontitis, the more advanced stage of
periodontal disease, can develop, causing irreversible damage to the gums,
teeth and surrounding bones. Periodontitis is more serious because the
tissue that holds the teeth to the bone is destroyed, causing tooth roots
to be exposed and increasing decay, inflammation and receding gums,
resulting in possible tooth loss.



There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing
periodontal disease, including the use of tobacco; certain systematic
diseases, such as diabetes; some types of medication, including steroids
and various anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, calcium channel
blockers and oral contraceptives; bridges that no longer fit properly;
crooked teeth; fillings that have become defective and pregnancy.



"Researchers have found that people with gum disease are almost twice
as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease," said Dr. David Shemo, a
PDA member and general dentist from Wilkes-Barre. "Their theory is that
oral bacteria can affect the heart when it enters the blood stream,
attaching to fatty plaques in the heart's blood vessels and contributing to
clot formation."



PDA offers the following tips to maintain optimal dental health and
prevent periodontal disease:


-- Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Brushing and flossing
helps to remove the plaque and food particles from the surface of the
teeth and between the teeth where a toothbrush can't reach. Replace
your toothbrush every few months or when the bristles become frayed or
worn. Using a fluoride toothpaste and antibacterial mouthrinse is
another way to help keep tooth decay at bay.


-- Eat a nutritious and well-balanced diet. Choose a variety of nutritious
foods from the five main food groups: grain, dairy, fruits, vegetables
and meat/poultry.


-- Visit the dentist at least every six months for oral health checkups and
professional cleaning.


-- Contact your dentist immediately if you notice any symptoms of
periodontal disease, as early detection is key. Symptoms of periodontal
disease include red, swollen or tender gums or gums that bleed easily or
are pulling away from the teeth; chronic bad breath or bad taste in the
mouth; permanent teeth that are loose or separating; pus appearing
between the teeth and gums when gums are pressed; changes in teeth
alignment when you bite and changes in the fit of partial dentures.



For more information on other oral health topics, visit PDA's website
at padental.


Pennsylvania Dental Association

padental