Periodontal/Gum Disease

Gingivitis is a bacterial infection of the tissues in the mouth and potential precursor of gum disease. Periodontal disease (aka periodontitis) is an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues surrounding a tooth, and is the leading cause of tooth loss.

Once gum disease sets in, the toxins produced by the bacteria damage the teeth’s connective tissue and bone, effectively destroying them, leading to tooth loss.

Early Signs of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is a sleeping tiger. The patient is unaware of the problem until it is too late, or until a dental professional discovers the disease. Invisible to the unsuspecting patient, the bone tends to recede; the gums may or may not recede. In some cases, the root of the tooth becomes exposed, occasionally causing tooth sensitivity. In addition, pus may be produced, and pockets may form between the gum and tooth. Since bone recession is not visible to the naked eye, if left undetected, it may contribute to tooth loss. It is important to have routine dental exams. Following are some common signs of gum disease:

• Bleeding gums during brushing or eating.
• Sensitive, red or swollen gums.
• Bad breath.
• Loose or shifting teeth.

Causes of Gum Disease

• Poor Dental Hygiene: If plaque is not removed through daily oral hygiene practices and regular professional dental cleanings, bacteria may colonize and cause gingivitis, which may eventually result in gum disease.
• Bio-Chemical Changes in the Mouth: Changes that occur in metabolism and hormone levels during pregnancy, puberty and menopause may affect the organic balance in the mouth, and make teeth more susceptible to gum disease.
• Medical Conditions: Serious conditions that affect the body’s ability to produce sugar (such as diabetes or kidney disease) may contribute to periodontal disease. Furthermore, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has found an association between certain illnesses (including diabetes, stroke and heart attack) and gum disease. Finally, medications used to treat medical conditions may produce the overgrowth of gums. Overgrown gums are more susceptible to bacteria, and therefore gum disease.
• Saliva Flow Inhibitors: Certain medications (ie: high blood pressure) that produce dry mouth syndrome (xerostomia) may contribute to a reduction of protective saliva flow, and potentially to gum disease. Seniors may be more susceptible to dry mouth syndrome because of the natural reduction of salivary flow associated with age.
• Functional Habits: Teeth grinding or clenching may stress the surrounding tissue and is a possible contributor to gum disease.