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Periodontal
Disease Diagnosis
The word periodontal means “around the tooth”. Periodontal
disease attacks the gums and the bone that support the
teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and
saliva. If plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus
(tartar). When plaque and calculus are not removed, they
begin to destroy the gums and bone. Periodontal disease is
characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.
Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t
know it! Most people are not aware of it because the disease
is usually painless in the early stages.
Not only is it the number one reason for tooth loss,
research suggests that there may be a link between
periodontal disease and other diseases such as, stroke,
bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and
increased risk during pregnancy. Researchers are determining
if inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal
disease affects these systemic diseases and conditions.
Smoking also increases the risk of periodontal disease.
Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental
visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal
disease.
Signs and symptoms of
periodontal disease:
-
Bleeding gums – Gums should never bleed,
even when you brush vigorously or use dental
floss.
- Loose
teeth – Also caused by bone loss or weakened
periodontal fibers (fibers that support the
tooth to the bone).
- New
spacing between teeth – Caused by bone loss.
-
Persistent bad breath – Caused by bacteria
in the mouth.
- Pus
around the teeth and gums – Sign that there
is an infection present.
-
Receding gums – Loss of gum around a tooth.
- Red
and puffy gums – Gums should never be red or
swollen.
-
Tenderness or Discomfort – Plaque, calculus,
and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.
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