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| What is Gum (Periodontal) Disease? |
Periodontal disease is an infectious and inflammatory disease which destroys the periodontal tissues. These tissues consist of the gums and the bone that support the teeth. It is a gum and bone disease.
Periodontal disease affects 3 out of 4 adults. It is caused by a growing colony of living bacteria called “plaque”. The greatest cause of adult tooth loss is periodontal disease.
In the early stages of periodontal disease there is little, if any, pain; therefore you may not notice the gradual onset of puffiness and occasional bleeding. Without thorough removal, toxins from plaque cause the disease process to continue.
Periodontal disease left untreated may result in extensive bone destruction and possible tooth loss. If detected in the early stages, periodontal disease can be treated and controlled.
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| How is Periodontal Disease Related to Your Health? |
Periodontal Disease may increase your risk for a variety of health concerns including:
Heart Attack
Weakened Immune System
Diabetes
Stroke
Lung Disease
Preterm, Low Birth Babies
Respiratory Disease
Gastric Ulcer
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| Did You Know? |
The most common strain of bacteria in dental plaque can cause blood clots that induce heart attacks when they escape into the bloodstream. Studies have found the incidence of heart disease is about twice as high in people with periodontal (gum) disease. When blood clots escape into the bloodstream, there is a relation to increased risk of heart attacks and stroke. People with periodontal disease (over 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.
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| The ADA Early Warning Signs of Periodontal Disease.. |
- Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
Gums that are red, swollen or tender
Gums that are pulled away from teeth
Pus between teeth and gums when gums are pressed
Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
Change in the way your teeth fit together when biting
Any changes in fit of patial dentures
Persistent bad breath
Please contact Dr. Brown’s office if you are concerned that you or a loved one may need treatment for periodontal disease.
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| What is Soft Tissue Management? |
We refer to the timely diagnosis and treatment of the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease as Soft Tissue Management. Soft Tissue Management is an individualized plan to eliminate infection of the gums and root surfaces. An appropriate plan will be chosen by Dr. Brown, your hygienist, and you. The hygienist will perform the treatments to help eliminate infection, make recommendations to help you more effectively clean your teeth daily, and guide you through our efforts
What is Root Planing?
Root planning is the treatment of the diseased root surfaces below the gumline. A routine prophy (cleaning) emphasizes cleaning the teeth above the gumline in a generally healthy mouth. Root planning focuses on eliminating tartar and plaque below the gum and detoxifying the root surfaces where the disease occurs. Obtaining smooth roots and flushing out the pockets allows for healthy reattachment of the gums to the root surfaces.
What do we hope to accomplish with Soft Tissue Management?
- Gums that do not bleed...Bleeding indicates infection. Healthy gums do not bleed~
- Fresher breath and taste
- Gums that are not red, swollen, or tender
- Knowing how to effectively maintain good oral hygiene
- Reduced pocket depths
- Control of Periodontal Disease
To Be Successful,
- All periodontal therapy prescribed should be completed.
- A thorough cleaning of your tooth surfaces two times a day
- Regular 3 month visits to maintain the care of your teeth and gums are vital.
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