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Periodontal disease is an
infection of the tissues that
support your teeth. Your gum
tissue is not attached to the
teeth as high as it may seem.
There is a very shallow v-shaped
crevice called a sulcus between
the tooth and gums. Periodontal
diseases attack just below the
gum line in the sulcus, where
they cause the attachment of the
tooth and its supporting tissues
to break down. As the tissues
are damaged, the sulcus develops
into a pocket: generally, the
more severe the disease, the
greater the depth of the pocket.
Periodontal diseases are
classified according to the
severity of the disease. The two
major stages are gingivitis and
periodontitis. Gingivitis is a
milder and reversible form of
periodontal disease that only
affects the gums. Gingivitis may
lead to more serious,
destructive forms of periodontal
disease called periodontitis.
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Some factors increase
the risk of developing
periodontal disease:
- Tobacco smoking or
chewing
- Systemic diseases such
as diabetes
- Some types of medication
such as steroids, some types
of anti-epilepsy drugs,
cancer therapy drugs, some
calcium channel blockers and
oral contraceptives
- Bridges that no longer
fit properly
- Crooked teeth
- Fillings that have
become defective
- Pregnancy or use of oral
contraceptives
Several
warning signs that
can signal a problem:
- Gums that bleed easily
- Red, swollen, tender
gums
- Gums that have pulled
away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath or
bad taste
- Permanent teeth that are
loose or separating
- Any change in the way
your teeth fit together when
you bite
- Any change in the fit of
partial dentures
It is possible to
have periodontal disease and
have no warning signs.
That is one reason why regular
dental checkups and periodontal
examinations are very important.
Treatment methods depend upon
the type of disease and how far
the condition has progressed.
Good oral hygiene at home is
essential to help keep
periodontal disease from
becoming more serious or
recurring. You don’t
have to lose teeth to
periodontal disease.
Brush, clean between your teeth,
eat a balanced diet, and
schedule regular dental visits
for a lifetime of healthy smile.
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Northside Dental Clinic
2105 W Kearney, Suite A
Springfield, MO 65803
(417) 862-2468
(800) 596-6782
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James River Dental Center
4205 S. Glenstone
Springfield, MO 65804
(417) 882-1711
(800) 513-9713 |
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