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Periodontal
(gum) disease affects three out of four adults at some time in their lives. It
doesn't necessarily hurt and you may not even be aware you have it until an
advanced stage. Regular dental visits are essential for detecting periodontal
disease at an early stage, before the gums and the supporting bone are
irreversibly damaged. We will screen your mouth for signs of periodontal disease
every time you visit our office for an oral examination and prophylaxis (teeth
cleaning).
Periodontal diseases are caused by certain types of bacteria in plaque, the
sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. These
bacteria create toxins which irritate the gums and break down the attachment of
gum tissues to the teeth. Over a period of time, these toxins can destroy gum
tissues, allowing the infection to progress to the underlying bone. In addition,
unremoved plague combines with other materials and hardens into a porous deposit
called calculus. Calculus on the tooth surface, above the gumline, may not
contribute to periodontal diseases; but calculus on the root surface, below the
gums, makes removal of new plaque and bacteria more difficult. Only a dentist or
dental hygienist can remove calculus deposits during a professional cleaning.
Videos are available at the
American Dental Association (ADA) web site
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