About Periodontal Disease
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal diseases are ongoing infections of the gums that gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease in genetically-susceptible individuals. Bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons that irritate the gums.
Bacteria may cause the gums to turn red, swell, and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth causing pockets (spaces) to form. Plaque can also harden into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar). This can occur both above and below the gum line. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss. However, don’t be fooled. With periodontal disease, bleeding, redness, and swelling do not have to be present. Further, pain is usually not associated with periodontal disease. This disease damages the teeth, gum, and jawbone of more than 80 percent of Americans by age 45.
What causes periodontal disease?
Periodontal Disease as well as decay are both caused by Bacterial Plaque. Plaque is a sticky white film, composed primarily of various types of bacteria, which adhere to your teeth at and below the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth. It begins to form within minutes after cleaning. If not carefully removed by daily brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar). This cannot be removed without professional cleaning.
The Bacterial plaque produces toxins or poisons that irritate the gums, which may (but not always) cause them to turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth, causing Periodontal Pockets (spaces) to form along the tooth. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss. San Angelo periodontist, Dr. Teitelbaum, specializes in treating periodontitis and also the effects adverse effects of periodontitis such as tooth loss. If you are suffering from periodontal disease or its effects, our team can provide conservative treatment options as well as preventative and restorative care.
How can I prevent gum disease?
Adults over the age of 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and Periodontal Diseases is by daily thorough tooth brushing and flossing techniques and regular professional examinations and cleanings. Unfortunately, even with the most diligent home dental care, people still can develop some form of periodontal disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to prevent its progress.
What factors contribute to gum disease?
A variety of factors can contribute to the onset of gum disease, but some of the most common causes for periodontitis are the following:
Tobacco usage
Diabetes
Stress
Clenching and grinding teeth
Medication
Poor nutrition
If you are concerned about periodontal disease or if you would like to schedule an appointment for periodontal maintenance and routine care, please call our San Angelo office today.