Download Gum Disease Report - Lincolnway Dental Center

Gingivitis... Gum Disease... Periodontal Disease...
In the most basic terms, gum disease
is the growth of bacteria in your
mouth. The disease eventually
progresses to more advanced stages,
attacking the gum tissue that
provides stability to your teeth and
attaches your teeth to your gums.
As bacteria spreads in your mouth, it
creates a substance called “plaque”
on the teeth. If plaque is not
removed, it builds up and hardens
into tartar, a firmer matter. This is
very difficult to get off your teeth, as
it is attached like glue, becoming
much harder to scrape off. This stage
is known as gingivitis.
During the initial stages of gingivitis,
you will begin to notice your gums
turning red, and you'll see that you
are bleeding when you brush your
teeth. If treated quickly at this point,
you will be able to save your teeth.
You can take preventative measures
early on with a dedicated oral
hygiene program, which includes
routine professional cleaning
appointments with your dentist. You
should also make sure to brush your
teeth at least twice a day, ideally
after all your meals. You should also
floss regularly. With a consistent oral
program, you can reduce plaque and
prevent gingivitis.
Signs and Symptoms
Healthy
• Gums are pink and
healthy-looking
• No bleeding
• Gum line is tight around
the teeth; no pockets
Gingivitis
• Gums are inflamed,
tender and red
• Bad breath and bad taste
• Gums bleed when
brushed or probed
gently
Periodontitis
• Bad breath and bad taste
• Slight bone loss
• More pronounced
bleeding, puffiness and
inflammation
• Gums start to pull away
from the teeth
• Pockets of 4 millimeters
form between teeth and
gums
Advanced Periodontitis
• Chronic bad breath and
bad taste
• Tooth roots become
exposed; sensitive to hot
and cold
• Teeth may become
mobile or loose
• Pockets over 6
millimeters deep
between teeth and gums
• Severe angular and
horizontal bone loss on
X-ray
Schedule your consultation by calling 630.897.1300 or visiting www.LincolnwayDentalCenter.com
Gum Disease May Affect Your General Health
Alzheimer's
Stroke
Tooth infections and gum
inflammations caused by
periodontal disease may be
associated with cognitive
decline and dementia.
Adults who suffer from
periodontitis may have an
increased risk of stroke.
Respiratory Infections
The buildup of dental plaque
serves as a breeding ground
for bacteria that may reach
the lungs through inhalation.
Additionally, inhaling oral
bacteria can lead to
pneumonia.
Severe Osteopenia
Gum disease and tooth loss
have shown to be linked with
a reduction in bone mass
(osteopenia).
Post-menopausal women are
especially at risk for tooth
loss-related severe
osteopenia.
Pregnancy Complications
The heightened levels of
estrogen and progesterone
during pregnancy cause the
gums to react differently to
plaque bacteria. This reaction
causes bleeding, swelling,
redness or soreness in the
gum tissue—signs of
gingivitis. 0-70% of women
will develop gingivitis during
their pregnancy. This is called
pregnancy gingivitis.
Oral Cancer
Chronic periodontitis may
lead to bone loss, thus
increasing the risk of oral
cancer.
Heart Disease
Periodontitis is associated
with several diseases
related to the
cardiovascular system. Oral
bacteria may cause
problems with clotting in
the cardiovascular system.
Periodonditis also increases
the risk of cardiovascular
disease and fatal heart
attacks.
Uncontrolled Diabetes
People who suffer from
type 2 diabetes are three
times more likely to
develop periodontal
disease than are
nondiabetics. This is
because diabetes can alter
the environment of the
healthy mouth,
contributing to bacterial
growth. If diabetes is
combined with smoking,
the chance of tooth loss
increases by 20 times.
Schedule your consultation by calling 630.897.1300 or visiting www.LincolnwayDentalCenter.com