Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a severe oral health problem that affects about 10% of the population.  Although the infection begins as a minor inflammation, it can quickly escalate into tooth loss, hard tissue damage, and have an effect on your overall systemic health.  

Fortunately, it is easy to prevent periodontal disease with diligent oral care.  I always remind my patients to brush twice a day, floss and schedule appointments for bi-annual cleanings and exams.  In the event you do find yourself with periodontal disease, it’s important to catch it in its earliest stages.

If you notice any of the following signs of periodontal disease developing, schedule an appointment and be proactive about your oral health:
•    Bleeding gums during or after brushing and flossing your teeth
•    Swollen, tender or sore gums
•    Gums that appear to be receding from your teeth
•    Bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth, even after brushing
•    Loose teeth or teeth that can be physically moved in the gum bed
•    Changes in your bite alignment
•    Lack of stability in any restoratives or prosthetic dental work

Source:
http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/DataStatistics/FindDataByTopic/GumDisease/PeriodontaldiseaseAdults20to64