BerkshireFamilyDental – Dr. Chehayeb - Feb 2009

The Causes and Cures of Periodontal Disease

When considering dental problems most people think in terms of difficulties with their teeth such as cavities, tooth decay and even tooth loss. However, another important situation can occur as the result of disease or simply poor dental hygiene and care. This problem is periodontal disease, often colloquially called gum disease.

The word periodontal literally means “around the tooth”. Periodontics is the area of dentistry that diagnoses and treats diseases of the gums and bone that surround your teeth holding them firmly in place in your mouth. This is a vital specialty and is one of the eight recognized specialties of the American Dental Association. If the gum and bone around your teeth are compromised this can easily result in tooth loss. The care of the supporting structures of the teeth is the specialty of a periodontist. Periodontists are also expert in the placement and maintenance of dental implants. Dental implants are tiny posts that are placed into the bone to create a foundation for artificial teeth.

Periodontal disease is actually an infection in the gums. The main cause of periodontal disease is plaque, that sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. Eliminating this film from teeth and gums is one of the reasons brushing and flossing regularly is so important.

The two most common types of periodontal disease are gingivitis and periodontitus. Gingivitis occurs when only the tissue of the gums is infected and breaks down due to the periodontal disease. Periodontitus is a more serious form of periodontal disease where both the bone and the tissue that connects the gum and bone are affected and broken down.

What are the Causes of Periodontal Disease?

Two of the main culprits in the creation of gum disease are plaque and tartar. Plaque is a type of dental bacteria that can be found all over the teeth’s enamel and along the gum line. Most people brush their teeth carefully and maintain a good dental hygiene routine such as flossing and using mouthwash, in order to remove the most plaque from their teeth as possible. However, there are always some difficult areas of the mouth which we simply cannot reach. In this case or in the case of bad oral hygiene, the remaining plaque can seep into the gums and release harmful toxins which will affect the gums and tissue. Hardened plaque or tartar will also create problems for your gums and even the bony structure holding your teeth in place. Once the tartar has been created below the gumline, it may cause severe irritation, inflammation and infection.
Other Factors

Other extenuating factors exist which can create or worsen periodontal disease. If you are prone to plaque and tartar build up and suffer from one of the following conditions, your chances of having periodontal disease will increase: a lack of oxygen in the mouth, a weakened immune system, diabetes, stress, or pregnancy.

Some drugs also increase your risk of periodontal problems. These include birth control pills, steroids and certain other medicines (for cancer, seizures and blood pressure). If you suffer from one of these conditions or are taking certain medicines, you should notify your dentist so that he or she can look and watch out specifically for gum disease during your appointments.

Periodontal Disease Treatment

Periodontal disease must be treated in a timely manner so it doesn’t lead to more serious dental problems. If you suffer from periodontal disease, have a family history of periodontal disease or just want to take preventive measures from having any gum disease a good oral hygiene routine will help. Brush your teeth well at least three times a day. Floss regularly. Change your toothbrush every 2-3 months, use fluoride toothpaste and eat a healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Medical treatment for periodontal disease will normally include antibiotics and a special mouthwash for eliminating the inflammation, pain and bacteria. Your doctor will also perform a scaling and root planning procedure which the dentist will remove any plaque and tartar and smooth over the teeth roots in order for the gum tissue to reattach itself to the teeth without further problems.

If you suspect you may have any periodontic problems see your dentist right away. Chances are you can catch it before any significant damage is done.

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