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Periodontal or gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is a leading cause of tooth loss in American adults and most often caused by a build up of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is the sticky film of bacteria that is brushed and flossed away with proper oral care. When left on the teeth, plaque produces toxins that attack below the gum line in the sulcus, a shallow v-shaped crevice between the tooth and gums. This causes the bond between teeth and gums to break down.
In the early stage of gum disease, a condition known as gingivitis, gums may become red and swollen and bleed easily; in the more advanced stage (periodontal disease), teeth can loosen and even fall out. Good oral hygiene and regular dental examinations are essential in prevention and early detection of gum disease - especially since you can have it without experiencing any warning signs.
Early cases of periodontal disease often do not cause any symptoms, although damage to the gums is still occurring. As the disease progresses, patients may experience:
Once symptoms are detected, your periodontist may perform a series of tests in order to determine the severity of the condition and extent of the damage. This may include X-ray exams, full evaluation of your medical history and underlying conditions and examination with a dental probe to detect any periodontal pockets.
Most cases of periodontal disease develop because of bacterial plaque that builds up on the teeth over time. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film that stimulates an inflammatory response and causes the body to attack itself. When it is not removed, plaque hardens and causes tartar to develop on the teeth, which cannot be removed through brushing at home. The tissues and bone that support the teeth are gradually destroyed by this process.
While plaque is the most common cause of periodontal disease, certain life or hereditary factors may play a significant role in the health of your gums. In fact, some patients may be at a higher risk for developing periodontal disease because of their life habits. Some of the risk factors for these dental conditions include:
You can reduce your risk of developing gum disease by practicing proper oral hygiene on a daily basis. This includes thoroughly brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day. It is important for patients to practice proper brushing and flossing techniques to ensure that teeth are adequately cleaned.
The products you choose for your dental hygiene can also play a role in keeping teeth happy and healthy. Electronic toothbrushes are among one of the safest and most effective types of toothbrush for most patients. Fluoride products can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay, but should not be used on children under the age of six.
Seeing your dentist for a professional cleaning on a regular basis is also essential to maintaining good dental health, as he or she can remove plaque and other substances that have built up on the teeth over time. Your dentist will also recommend other prevention techniques you can take to help maintain your health and prevent gum disease and other conditions. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding smoking can also help maintain dental and overall health.
In addition to screening for and treating periodontal disease, your periodontist also evaluates the teeth and mouth for any indications of a pathological process, including oral cancer.
Normally, the inside of the mouth appears pink and smooth because of a special lining called mucosa. Certain changes within the mouth may indicate a growth or abnormality that should be treated quickly and efficiently. Some of these changes may include:
These changes can occur anywhere in or around the mouth, including the lips, cheeks, gum tissue, tongue, face or neck. If you detect any of these or other abnormalities, you should seek medical attention so that the condition can be properly diagnosed.
It is recommended that patients perform monthly oral cancer screenings at home in order to detect any changes as soon as they occur.
