PERIODONTAL DENTAL CARE IN PHOENIX

Periodontal disease affects the gums and the surrounding tissue around the teeth and has also shown to have a negative effect on ones heart. Periodontal disease can range from gum disease to bone and tissue loss. Periodontal diseases are caused by microbial infections that, over time, cause breakdown of the supporting ligaments and bone. The bacteria associated with periodontal disease have also been isolated in the heart of those who have active periodontal disease. And while Dr. O is trained to treat gum disease non-surgically, when a patient has an advanced case they are usually referred to a periodontist who specializes in the treatment of periodontal disease. The best way to prevent periodontal disease is by forming good oral hygiene habits. Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing between meals and scheduling regular visits with Dr. Obernuefemann should prevent you from having to see a specialist, because taking care of your teeth gums means taking care of your smile and overall health.

Periodontal (gum) disease is a leading cause of tooth loss and may be associated with other chronic diseases, including diabetes and heart disease.

If you have been told you have periodontal (gum) disease, you’re not alone. Many adults in the U.S. currently have some form of the disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)¹ one out of every two American adults aged 30 and over has periodontal disease. Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth are lost.

Whether your gum disease is stopped, slowed, or gets worse depends a great deal on how well you care for your teeth and gums every day, from this point forward.


By assessing your oral health on an annual basis, you and your dental professional will know how healthy your mouth is, and will be better able to notice any conditions, such as periodontal disease, that may need additional treatment.


Research has also shownthat there is an association between periodontal disease and other chronic inflammatory conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory diseases. Therefore, it is very important to treat the inflammation that causes periodontal disease as soon as possible to ensure that your entire body stays healthy.


Some of the treatments that are included in the care of periodontal treatment are: Gum Graft Surgery, Laser Treatment, Regenerative Procedures, Dental Crown Lengthening, Dental Implants, Pocket Reduction Procedures, and Plastic Surgery Procedures.

Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. It causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort at this stage. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care.


Factors that may contribute to gingivitis include, diabetes, smoking, aging, genetic predisposition, systemic diseases and conditions, stress, inadequate nutrition, puberty, hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, substance abuse, HIV infection, and certain medication use.

Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. The toxins stimulate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body in essence turns on itself, and the tissues and bone that support the teeth are broken down and destroyed. Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Often, this destructive process has very mild symptoms. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.

CONDITIONS CONTRIBUTING TO PERIODONTAL DISEASE:

• Age
• Smoking/Tobacco Use
• Genetics
• Stress
• Medications
• Clenching or Grinding Your Teeth
• Poor Nutrition and Obesity

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show high prevalence of periodontal disease in the U.S. population. Click for more.