What is Gum Disease?
Periodontal disease is a chronic infection of the gums, bone and ligaments that support the teeth and anchor them in the jaw. It is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. A recent CDC report provides the following data related to prevalence of periodontitis in the U.S.:
| • | 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease |
| • | Periodontal Disease increases with age, 70.1% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease |
Bacterial plaque forms around teeth and if it isn't removed with daily brushing and flossing it hardens into calculus (or tartar). When calculus builds up on teeth it can spread below the gum line, causing irritation to the gums and difficulty with cleaning. Only your dentist or hygienist can remove calculus from around your teeth and below the gum line through periodontal maintenance.
What Are The Warning Signs of Gum Disease?
The following are warning signs of periodontal disease:
| • | Bad breath or bad taste that won't go away |
| • | Red or swollen gums |
| • | Tender or bleeding gums |
| • | Painful chewing |
| • | Loose teeth |
| • | Sensitive teeth |
| • | Gums that have pulled away from your teeth |
| • | Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite |
| • | Any change in the fit of partial dentures |
What Are The Risk Factors?
Certain factors increase the risk for periodontal disease:
| • | Smoking |
| • | Diabetes |
| • | Poor oral hygiene
|
| • | Stress |
| • | Heredity |
| • | Crooked teeth |
| • | Underlying immuno-deficiencies, e.g., AIDS |
| • | Fillings that have become defective |
| • | Taking medications that cause dry mouth |
| • | Bridges that no longer fit properly |
| • | Female hormonal changes, such as with pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives |
Information from The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention
If you or a loved one is in or near Chandler, AZ contact us to schedule your Periodontal examination!