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| | Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. When it is detected early through a periodontal examination, it can be treated comfortably, economically and successfully. Most important, early detection and treatment of periodontal disease can help you keep your teeth for a lifetime. By keeping your natural teeth, you reap the benefits of better health. You can eat, smile and speak with greater comfort and confidence. For looking good and feeling good, nothing works better than your natural teeth. Who should be tested for periodontal disease?
Everyone! Periodontal disease affects three out of four people at some point in life. More than half of all adults currently have a form of periodontal disease. So, if you are over 18, your chances of having periodontal disease are better than 50 - 50.
Contrary to popular opinion, periodontal disease is not just for adults. Children and teenagers are also susceptible; therefore, it is a good idea to have them tested for periodontal disease. | | | | | How can I be tested for periodontal disease? | | | You should request a thorough periodontal examination. During this exam your gums will be inspected for color and firmness. Your teeth will be tested for looseness and checked for the way they fit together when you bite. X-rays may be taken to evaluate the bone supporting your teeth. A technique called periodontal probing is the cornerstone of testing for periodontal disease. In this procedure, a small measuring instrument is gently placed between your tooth and gum to measure the depth of the pocket.
Periodontal probing should be part of every complete dental examination. |  | | | | | Can I test myself for periodontal disease?
You can - and should - check yourself for the warning signs of periodontal disease. However, you may have periodontal disease that has spread into the bone and not have any of the symptoms.
Most people do not experience any pain and therefore it often goes unnoticed. Many times periodontal disease is a silent epidemic. That is why it is important to have a regular periodontal examination.The warning signs are:- bleeding gums during tooth brushing
- red, swollen or tender gums
- gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- persistent bad breath
- pus between the teeth and gums
- loose or separating teeth
- a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- a change in the fit of partial dentures
You should contact a periodontist if you notice any of these symptoms. A periodontist is a specialist in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal diseases, and in the planning, placement and maintenance of dental implants. | | | What causes periodontal disease?
The main cause of periodontal disease is bacterial plaque, a sticky, colorless, film that constantly forms on your teeth. Daily cleanings to remove the plaque are essential to a healthy mouth. |  | | | If the plaque is not removed, it hardens into a rough, porous deposit
called calculus, or tartar. Toxins (or poisons) produced by the bacteria in the plaque irritate the gums. |  | | | The toxins destroy supporting tissues around the teeth. Gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that fill with more plaque. |  | | | As the disease progresses, the pockets grow deeper. Plaque moves further down the roots of the teeth and the bone that supports the teeth may be permanently damaged. Unless treated, the affected teeth can become loose and eventually be lost. |  | | | How can I prevent periodontal disease?
The best way to prevent periodontal disease is by brushing and flossing carefully every day, and by requesting a periodontal examination during your routine dental visit. In addition to testing you for periodontal disease, the dental staff will advise you on effective oral health care at home. A professional cleaning will remove hardened calculus in places that your toothbrush, floss and other cleaning aids have missed. Once calculus forms it is impossible to remove without professional care.By following this simple, straightforward program of good dental health, you
can help prevent periodontal disease and keep your teeth for a lifetime. You can enjoy a healthy smile, a natural asset to your appearance.
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