Wednesday, April 25, 2012




                                                Periodontal Disease.. Who cares??


If you have been told or you suspect you have some form of gum disease do you really care? Is there some level of periodontal disease that we find “acceptable” or expected? What does it mean for the health of your mouth, keeping your teeth for a lifetime or the overall health of your body?
 
 Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gum tissues and other structures supporting the teeth. Statistics say that as many as 50% of the population has some form of gum disease .The baby boomers don’t see themselves  as their grandparents did; gray haired, toothless and unable to do anything about it. Since we are living longer and our teeth are challenged by tooth decay, the need for restoration and periodontal disease more patients are seeking ways to make sure that as they age  their teeth don’t rest in a jar at night.

Although the loss of one’s teeth is not life threatening the process behind the loss may be. Gum disease or periodontal disease arises from inflammation. Many other systemic diseases such as heart, lung and kidney disease have the same origin. Along with premature or low birth weight babies, diabetes and some forms of cancer, inflammation plays a large part in these killer conditions.

 While it may be noticing a little bleeding from your gums while brushing or the fact that bad breath is causing concern; go to the dentist and check it out.  Doing nothing is far more dangerous and costly than dealing with the problem. Inflammation is inflammation wherever it is happening in the body. The best way to keep your smile and protect your health is to find the reason for the problem.

There are many innovative and alternative methods of treating gum disease.  Do the work, find a periodontist and give yourself something to smile about!