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HYGIENE AND PERIODONTAL (GUM) DISEASE
The roll of the Hygiene Department is to educate patients and provide
supportive therapy to assist them in overcoming one of the most
common diseases known to mankind. Surprisingly, periodontal disease
affects as much as 80% of the adult population.
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums and bone
that surround and support the teeth. The infection occurs when the
bacteria becomes imbedded in plaque (a film that sticks to teeth)
and tartar (calculus). This is the primary cause of bad breath and
loss of teeth among adults. Some of the more noticeable symptoms,
which are usually painless, include swollen or bleeding gums and
a foul taste in the mouth. The foul taste is a result of sulfur
toxins, which are released from bacteria building up in the gums
and around the teeth. Although these symptoms are subtle and often
go unnoticed, there are more serious ones such as tooth loosening
- caused by bone loss - which can lead to painful and potentially
life threatening infections. Advanced periodontal disease is debilitating,
causing patients to become chronically run-down and fatigued by
overloading the immune system in its fight against the infection.
Long term studies by medical institutions, including Harvard University,
clearly demonstrate periodontal disease is closely linked to coronary
heart disease.
Periodontal disease can best be prevented by avoiding tobacco use,
practicing proper oral hygiene habits, and undergoing a thorough
dental examination including a periodontal evaluation. Laser treatments,
as well as debridement procedures (referred to as periodontal therapy),
can be utilized to correct periodontal disease. Advanced cases may
require antibiotic therapy, removal of infectious deposits, or tissue
surgery. Taking some medications result in a "dry mouth,"
which can adversely affect the health of gum tissue.
Patients that require extensive tooth restoration and have a periodontal
condition often ask us how long their investment in corrective procedures
will last. The long-term success of tooth restorations, which include
fillings, crowns, and bridgework is dependent upon continual hygiene
maintenance of the supportive gums and jawbone. Restorations last
2 to 3 times longer if the supportive tissues are maintained in
a healthy condition.
Our older patients have restorations that are still in a serviceable
condition after 30 or more years of use. They all have the same
factors in common: healthy gums that are free of periodontal disease.
Before any of our patients proceed with restorative treatment, they
will first pass through our hygiene department with a clean bill
of health for their gums.
There is great concern about periodontal disease and how it relates
to coronary heart disease. Periodontal disease will not go away
by itself. Preventing and treating the disease in the early stages
is the best way to keep a healthy smile.
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925.692.2010