Part of keeping your teeth for life is preventing gum disease. At our office we suggest regular cleanings by one of our registered
dental hygienists. That way we can keep on top of your individual gum health and make sure that any problems that arise are dealt with earlier rather than later.
The task of brushing and flossing our teeth daily has never been more important. Recent studies suggest that gum disease may contribute to or be warning signs of potentially life threatening conditions such as:
Heart Disease and Stroke
Diabetes
Chronic Kidney Disease
Preterm Birth
Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is mainly caused by specific bacteria from plaque and tartar build up. Your teeth must be clean to have healthy gums.
Other factors that have the potential to cause gum disease may include:
Tobacco use
Clenching or grinding your teeth
Certain medications
Genetics
Stress or a compromised immune system
Stages of Gum Disease Include:
Gingivitis - The beginning stage of gum disease and is often undetected. This stage of the disease is reversible.
Periodontitis - Untreated gingivitis may lead to this next stage of gum disease. With many levels of periodontitis, the common outcome ischronic inflammatory response, a condition when the body breaks down the bone and tissue in the infected area of the mouth, ultimately resulting in tooth and bone loss.
Other factors that have the potential to cause gum disease may include:
