A beautiful, healthy smile is not only characterized by dazzling pearl-white teeth. The secret to a healthy smile lies much deeper – and it is hidden in our gums. Patients with periodontal problems, or simply speaking, with diseases of the structures supporting the teeth, turn up more and more often in dental offices.
Contact Now 586-775-4260According to the WHO (World Health Organization), periodontal disease is one of the most common conditions of the population and, next to caries, it is a factor causing significant tooth loss. The incidence of periodontal disease in the adult population is 40-80% depending on age, and alarming statistics show that it affects young people more frequently than in the past.
What are gum diseases, what are their symptoms, and how to prevent them?
First of all, we should pay attention to our gums as we do to our dentition. They should typically be pale pink in color, with the correct tightness and an even garland-like structure around the bottom of our teeth. Each bleeding, even spontaneous, during brushing or eating, may indicate the existing inflammation. Bright red, swollen gums that overly expose our teeth, making them hypersensitive to thermal factors, suggest a medical condition. Moreover, each tooth that changes its position in the dental arch should attract our attention. The most visible symptom for the patient is a significant loosening of the tooth, causing pain while eating or even talking. In most cases, a persistent mouth odor and bad taste accompany the condition. If you notice the above symptoms, you should promptly head over to a dentist’s office.
Unfortunately, no. There is a large group of patients in whom periodontal disease begins in a seemingly unnoticeable manner. The patient may not be able to capture all the symptoms, such as the depth in the spaces between the tooth and the gum or the disappearance of bone processes. For preventative measures, you should routinely get a digital x-ray to rule out possible diseases.
An x-ray is an overview image that gives us a lot of information. It often allows us to detect lesions before symptoms appear in the mouth. This applies not only to the scope of periodontics but also to the early detection of caries or neoplastic (cancerous) changes.
The factors causing periodontal diseases are complex and still not fully understood. The most important of them, however, is oral hygiene. Over time and due to the growth of bacteria, the build-up of plaque turns into tartar. The accumulation of calculus deposits tightly adhering to the gingival surface of the teeth cause them to compress, creating pathological gingival pockets, loss of contact between the tooth and the socket, and its loosening. In addition, the quality and consistency of consumed foods and vitamin deficiencies have a significant impact. There are also many comorbidities with periodontitis, including diabetes, gastrointestinal diseases, allergies, and endocrine disorders. Malocclusions can also contribute to the development of the periodontal disease.
Periodontitis is generally considered a disease affecting the adult population, but gingivitis can begin in adolescents during puberty and even in young children. They are usually mild and end with reversible gum inflammation. As for adults, it is believed that men are more often affected, and the first symptoms appear around the age of thirty.
Periodontal disease also often affects pregnant women who, as a result of hormonal changes in the third trimester of pregnancy, may experience gingival growth and significant bleeding. Another group of patients consists of people taking chronic medications, such as patients with epilepsy or cardiovascular disorders. These people may also develop gum problems. In summary, every patient, big or small, should be alert.
The treatment plan is determined individually for each patient. The primary element of successful treatment is close cooperation between the patient and the doctor. The patient should understand the nature of the disease, the factors that aggravate it, and the methods of its elimination. Your determination and consistency are essential to battle periodontal disease.
Generally, treatment begins with oral hygiene instruction, which is very important in maintaining treatment results at home. We perform a procedure to remove subgingival calculus. In more advanced cases, surgical procedures with the use of materials that regenerate the tissues surrounding the tooth are necessary. Finally, special fillings are made to stabilize the teeth. In many cases, pharmacotherapy is essential. Treatment carried out with the use of minimally invasive and effective methods is considered to be the most beneficial for the patient.
At Kelly Road Dental Care, we understand the pain and discomfort associated with your oral health. We provide innovative, minimally-invasive treatment options for various dental ailments. When you walk through the doors of our clinic, you will immediately encounter a friendly and home-like atmosphere. Our highly experienced doctors and trained staff provide the best possible care to ensure your ultimate satisfaction. Your health is our priority.
