“Prevention is the Key to Keeping Your Teeth” Three out of four people are affected by gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Evidenced by a chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissues, this disease is responsible for causing about 70 percent of adult tooth loss, but gum disease is also preventable. 
Bacteria, Bad Choices, and Bad Genes
Several factors play a role in the development of periodontal disease: plaque build-up, heredity, and lifestyle choices. By far the most common and controllable factor, however, is the presence of bacterial plaque-a sticky, colorless film produced by normal oral bacteria. If not removed by daily brushing and flossing, bacteria produce and release toxins in the mouth, which in turn break down the natural fibers that hold the gums to the teeth, allowing even more bacteria and toxins to invade. As this process continues, the tooth, tooth root, and jawbone may all be effectively destroyed by decay. Furthermore, when left on the teeth, plaque quickly hardens into calculus or tartar. Calculus is a rough, porous substance that further irritates the gums and cannot be removed by brushing or flossing. Sadly, most of the disease progression is imperceptible to the patient.
In addition to the problems caused by poor oral health habits, poor lifestyle choices can affect the body's ability to fight infection or increase irritation in the gum tissue area. Poor nutrition and poorly managed stress reduce the body's natural ability to ward off periodontal disease, as do leukemia, AIDS, and diabetes. Smoking and chewing tobacco irritate the gum tissue. And finally, some people are simply born with a diminished resistance to gum disease. Warning Signs & Treatment
Signs of periodontal disease include red, swollen or tender gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, gums that pull away from teeth, loose or separating teeth, puss between the gum and tooth, persistent bad breath, change in the bite, and/or a change in the fit of partial dentures. However, since patients often feel little or no discomfort until the disease has spread considerably, frequent dental exams are extremely important to detect this disease. In the event of confirmed gum disease, treatment may include simple scaling and root planning using ultrasonic and manual instrumentation to remove calculus and plaque from around the tooth and root surfaces. This non-surgical treatment is combined with the use of antibiotics or antimicrobials, and an improved commitment to proper daily oral hygiene. In more severe cases, surgical treatment may be required, but surgical intervention can be avoided with early detection. The goal of non-surgical treatment is to reattach the gums to the tooth and bones preventing food and harmful bacteria from invading the deeper boney supporting structures. Following such treatment, consistent, proper oral hygiene is critical in order to sustain the results. Research has shown that patients that have been treated for periodontal disease should have a professional dental visit at least every 3 months for periodontal maintenance to prevent this disease from causing further destruction of the bone, leading to subsequent tooth loss. In addition, oral hygiene should consist of twice-daily brushing with a soft nylon-bristled brush, daily flossing, and thorough tongue brushing. In some cases, small, narrow brushes called proxy brushes may be advised to clean in between teeth. Of course, the best way to prevent gum disease and maintain your oral health is through consistent visits for cleanings and exams. We will do a complete periodontal (gum) evaluation during each of your visits to our office for continuing care (cleanings and exams). After you have been examined, Dr. Kerbel will prescribe a specific hygiene program to handle your specific requirements. It is a pleasure helping you keep your teeth for a lifetime. Visit our website at www.drgregkerbel.com or call our office at (972) 278-9901 for more information. Our address is:
Gregory Allen Kerbel, D.D.S.
3260 Southern Drive, Suite A
Garland, Texas 75043 |
