Periodontal (Gum) Disease:
Periodontal disease is the destruction of the hard and soft tissue supporting the dentition, due to chronic inflammation. There are several factors contrituting to the cause of the inflammation, but the main culprits are the harmful bacteria that have invaded and thrived inside the pockets around the teeth. Their by-products initiate the body’s immune responses that lead to inflammation and eventual bone and soft tissue loss. The process is mostly asymptomatic that patient may not be aware of of it, until the late stage (the picture on the right) where teeth mobility is observed by the patients.
Numerous studies have demonstrated a direct relationship between periodontal disease and systemic health. People of active periodontal disease are known to have significantly higher risk of: hypertension (high blood pressure), Type II Diabetes, heart disease, strokes, … Therefore, it is to the patient’s best interest to have a thorough dental examination to rule out the chance of having this disease. The sooner the better.
The good news is that periodontal disese is controllable and treatable to some extent. Unfortunately, it is not curable by any current standards. With the perpetual advancement in Dentistry, hopefully the cure for this silent, but damaging disease can be obtained in the near future.
Through a comprehesive examination with appropriate radiographs, treatment modalities, and patient’s complete cooperation, together we can help stopping the disease on its tract, preveting further damages, and maintaining the improved periodontal health of the patient. Please contact us today for more details.