This entry was posted on 1/22/2008 5:07 PM and is filed under ARTICLES.
By Jen Christensen Posted: Tuesday, January 22, 2008 at 10:13 a.m.
Periodontal Disease Periodontal (gum) disease is a chronic infection of the tissues that support the teeth. Bacteria in the mouth form a sticky film, called plaque, which adheres to the teeth. If the plaque is allowed to build, it hardens into a substance, called tartar, or calculus. The bacteria feed on sugars in foods and produce acids that damage the teeth and gums.
The gums are normally a healthy, pink color. In the early stages of periodontal disease (known as gingivitis), the gums become irritated, red and tender. They may appear swollen and bleed easily. Eventually, the infection spreads down the tooth into the gum line, forming a pocket between the teeth and the gums. The depth of the pocket reflects the severity of the disease. In more advanced stages, the tissues, ligaments and bone holding the teeth become damaged and weakened. The affected teeth may become loose or fall out.
The Academy of General Dentistry estimates 75 percent of Americans develop gum disease at some point in their lives. The condition causes about 70 percent of all cases of tooth loss in adults. Risk factors for periodontal disease include: poorly fitting dental appliances, crooked teeth, family history of gum disease, smoking, diabetes, stress, use of certain medications and, in females, hormonal changes.
Gum Disease and Overall Health Researchers have learned that gum disease sometimes goes hand-in-hand with other kinds of health problems, like atherosclerosis, heart disease, stroke and diabetes. The exact relationship between oral health and overall health isn’t known. However, some experts believe the inflammation associated with gum disease may be a reflection of inflammation elsewhere in the body.
In many cases, patients with periodontal disease may be unaware they have underlying medical conditions that could seriously affect their health. Ron Schefdore, D.M.D., is a dentist who’s teaching his clients about the oral health/body health connection. He says bleeding gums can be associated with high cholesterol, high blood sugar levels or C-reactive protein (CRP), a protein produced by the body in response to inflammation...
