Patient

Patient Resources According to American Academy of Periodontology

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. It causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort at this stage. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care. Factors that may contribute to gingivitis include, diabetes, smoking, aging, genetic predisposition, systemic diseases and conditions, stress, inadequate nutrition, puberty, hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, substance abuse, HIV infection, and certain medication use.

Periodontitis

Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. The toxins stimulate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body in essence turns on itself, and the tissues and bone that support the teeth are broken down and destroyed. Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Often, this destructive process has very mild symptoms. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.

Most common types of periodontitis include the following:

Aggressive periodontitis occurs in patients who are otherwise clinically healthy. Common features include rapid attachment loss and bone destruction and familial aggregation.
Chronic periodontitis results in inflammation within the supporting tissues of the teeth, progressive attachment and bone loss. This is the most frequently occurring form of periodontitis and is characterized by pocket formation and/or recession of the gingiva. It is prevalent in adults, but can occur at any age. Progression of attachment loss usually occurs slowly, but periods of rapid progression can occur.
Periodontitis as a manifestation of systemic diseases often begins at a young age. Systemic conditions such as heart disease, respiratory disease, and diabetes are associated with this form of periodontitis.

Gum disease is often silent. The symptoms may not appear until an advanced stage of the disease.

Warning signs of gum disease:

The gums appear red, swollen or tender
Bleeding in your mouth while brushing, flossing, and sometimes eating hard food
Receding gums which are causing the teeth to look longer than before
Loose teeth or new/ larger spaces between teeth
Sores in your mouth
Persistent bad breath
Pus between your teeth is a sign of extensive periodontal destruction. Presence of pus is a sign that the bacterial infection requires immediate treatment.
A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
A change in the fit of partial dentures

Age

Studies indicate that older people have the highest rates of periodontal disease. Data from the Centers for Diseae Control and Prevention indicates that over 70% of Americans 65 and older have periodontitis.

Smoking/Tobacco Use

Tobacco use is linked with many serious illnesses such as cancer, lung disease and heart disease, as well as numerous other health problems. Tobacco users also are at increased risk for periodontal disease. Studies have shown that tobacco use may be one of the most significant risk factors in the development and progression of periodontal disease.

Genetics

Research has indicated that some people may be genetically susceptible to gum disease. Despite aggressive oral care habits, these people may be more likely to develop periodontal disease. Identifying these people with a genetic test before they even show signs of the disease and getting them into early interventive treatment may help them keep their teeth for a lifetime.

Stress

Stress is linked to many serious conditions such as hypertension, cancer, and numerous other health problems. Stress also is a risk factor for periodontal disease. Research demonstrates that stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection, including periodontal diseases.

Medication

Some drugs, such as oral contraceptives, anti-depressants, and certain heart medicines, can affect your oral health. Just as you notify your pharmacist and other health care providers of all medicines you are taking and any changes in your overall health, you should also inform your dental care provider.

Clenching or Grinding Your Teeth

Clenching or grinding your teeth can put excess force on the supporting tissues of the teeth and could speed up the rate at which these periodontal tissues are destroyed

Smoking/Tobacco Use

Other Systemic Diseases

Other systemic diseases that interfere with the body's innflammatory system may worsen the condition of the gums. These include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Poor Nutrition and Obesity

A diet low in important nutrients can compromise the body's immune system and make it harder for the body to fight off infection. Because periodontal disease begins as an infection, poor nutrition can worsen the condition of your gums.

Gum Disease Symptoms

Gum disease is often silent, meaning symptoms may not appear until an advanced stage of the disease.

Since then many offices incorporated lasers into everyday procedures reducing bleeding, anxiety, post treatment healing time.

Warning signs of gum disease include the following:

Red, swollen or tender gums or other pain in your mouth
Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating hard food
Loose or separating teeth
Sores in your mouth
Persistent bad breath
A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
A change in the fit of partial dentures

Risk Assesment Test

The American Academy of Periodontology's risk assessment test will help you see if you are at risk for having or developing periodontal (gum) disease. Millions of people don't know they have this serious infection that can lead to tooth loss if not treated.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

IV Sedation is strongly recommended if you are in good overall health and:

Have fear associated with the dental office.
Had not very pleasant dental experiences in the past
Need a complex, difficult or long surgical procedure like dental implants, extractions or periodontal surgery
Have a strong gag reflex
Have a very difficult time getting numb
Desire to have more procedures done in a few number of appointments