Periodontal Disease
Introduction
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the gum tissue that supports the teeth. This infection causes the tissue surrounding the teeth to break down, resulting in tender gums, loose teeth, and, in severe cases, tooth loss.
What are the causes of gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by Plaque that builds up over time to form "tartar" that brushing doesn't clean. Only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar.
Gingivitis
Bacteria from the build up of plaque and tartar on teeth eventually will cause inflammation of the gums called "gingivitis." In gingivitis, the gums become red, swollen and can bleed easily. Gingivitis can usually be reversed with daily brushing and flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist.
Periodontitis
Un-treated gingivitis can often lead to "periodontitis", which means inflammation around the tooth. Periodontitis often causes gums to pull away from the teeth and form spaces that become infected. The bacteria start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth begin to break down causing the teeth to become loose and possibly have to be removed.
What causes gum disease?
Smoking
Hormonal changes in girls/women
Diabetes
Some Medications
Certain Illnesses
Genetic susceptibility
Who gets gum disease?
Gum disease generally doesn't develop until people are in their 30s or 40s. In general, men are more susceptible to have gum disease than women; teenagers are more likely to develop gingivitis; and most commonly, gum disease develops when plaque is allowed to build up along and under the gum line.
How can I prevent gum disease?
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Symptoms of gum disease include:
Constant bad breath
Red or swollen gums
Tender or bleeding gums
Painful chewing
Loose teeth
Sensitive teeth
Receding gums
How is gum diseae treated?
In most cases, the plaque is removed through a deep-cleaning method called scaling and root planing. Scaling refers to scraping off the tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing removes the rough spots on the tooth where the germs gather and also helps remove bacteria that contribute to the disease.
If you have specific questions about your dental needs, call us today at 586.247.1600
We service the following areas in Macomb County Michigan:
Sterling Heights, Troy, Clinton Township, Madison Heights, Utica, Rochester Hills, Royal Oak, Mount Clemens, macomb, macomb township, and more.
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