Detecting and Treating Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease affects 75% of adults over 35 years of age and is responsible for a significant amount of adult tooth loss. Neglecting your gums can eventually lead to periodontal (gum) disease, which contributes to the deterioration of overall oral health.

People often don’t realize when their mouth is under the bacterial attack of periodontal disease. Our systematic periodontal review checks gum pocket depths and tracks the health of your gums with the goal of preventing tooth loss.

Periodontal disease is triggered by plaque build-up, tobacco use, certain medications and stress, as well as by systemic disease and fluctuating hormone levels during puberty, pregnancy or menopause. Research shows that up to 30% of the population may be genetically susceptible to gum disease.

Periodontal disease begins with bacteria forming in the sticky film on tooth surfaces, causing gum inflammation. If the inflammation is ignored, toxins from the plaque break down natural fibers holding the gums to the teeth, permitting even more toxins to invade. Plaque deposits harden into calculus or tartar, which is a rough, porous substance not removable with brushing. Over time, this progression can lead to severe inflammation, bone loss, gum recession and tooth loss.

7 Symptoms and signs include:

• Red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums
• Gum recession, or gums pulling away from teeth
• Loose or separating teeth
• Pus between the gum and tooth
• Persistent bad breath
• Bite changes
• Change in the fit of partial dentures
  

 

 

If you notice any of these symptoms, please make an appointment promptly! Together we can battle periodontal disease and maintain your wonderful, dazzling smile.

Your family deserves healthy smiles designed for a lifetime. Call Aesthetic & Family Dentistry of Washington today to schedule your consultation or checkup with Dr. Obholz. Our Washington, DC dental office is convenient for patients who live or work in the American University, Georgetown, Tenley Circle, or Embassy Row area.