Are Periodontal Bacteria Destroying Your Gums?
Consider your gums as a
living foundation for your teeth. So important is this foundation that, without
healthy gum structure, your teeth will become unstable and at-risk for tooth
loss.
The Cause of Gum Disease
Periodontal disease is the leading cause
of adult tooth loss in the United States. Periodontal disease is formed when
harmful bacteria are lodged beneath the gum line, creating pockets or gaps
between your gums and teeth. These pockets become infected and over time can
destroy bone, teeth, and gum foundation. Smoking, genetics, pregnancy, stress
and nutrition have all been found to be factors in the cause of gum disease.
The Diagnosis of Gum Disease
If you have been diagnosed with gum
disease, there is hope. There are treatments that can help reduce further damage
to your gums and teeth. Your dentist or periodontist can provide several
treatments to reduce infection-causing bacteria and halt further spreading, and
diminish the size of periodontal pockets that encourage growth of bacteria.
Treating Gum Disease
The approved method for treating periodontal
disease is a procedure known as SRP. SRP is a non-surgical procedure where
scaling removes plaque and tartar from the teeth. Root planning then smoothes
away the rough areas at the root of the tooth - eliminating bacteria build up.
Your dentist may also use approved oral solutions to stop harmful enzymes that
cause tooth and gum decay.
Importance of Treatment Now
Treatment of gum disease has become
ever more important to your body's health. Links have been found between
periodontal disease and the increased risk of heart disease. Studies have also
shown that prolonged gum disease may elevate your risk of stroke and
pre-diabetes characteristics (higher than normal blood glucose levels leading to
type II diabetes).
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Brooklyn, NY 11217