Periodontics: Gum Disease Explained

    OAKTON, VA, November 26, 2008 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with diseases of the supporting and investing structures of the teeth including the gums, cementum, periodontal membranes and alveolar bone. Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that treats gum disease, a condition that when left untreated can ultimately destroy the jawbone and cause a person to lose teeth.

What causes gum disease?
Dentists (and most parents and grandparents) do not encourage people to brush and floss daily just for the sake of nagging. Gum disease results from the accumulation of harmful bacteria around the teeth. Consistent good oral hygiene habits are extremely important routines that help to remove harmful bacteria from our mouths. All human mouths produce bacteria that want to take over the mouth and destroy teeth with acidic toxins. The act of brushing and flossing helps keep bacteria at bay and allows teeth and gums to remain healthy.

Other conditions that may increase the likelihood for gum disease include:

• Illnesses, such as heart attacks or strokes
• Medications
• Diseases, such as diabetes
• Teeth grinding
• Hormonal changes
• Metabolism changes
• Dry mouth (xerostomia)

Does gum disease happen suddenly?
No. Bacteria accumulate gradually around the tooth roots. Most people will not have any external indication that there is any problem with their teeth until the gums and tooth roots are suffering from damage. The bacteria can work its way from the tooth root into the patient's bloodstream through the blood vessels and nerves that are connected to the tooth. Toothaches are the result of pain running from the tooth nerve to the brain.

Gum disease actually starts as gingivitis. If not brushed away, that harmful mouth bacteria will form plaque on the teeth, which will ultimately harden into tartar. You will see swelling in the gums and they may bleed. The effects of gingivitis can be reversed with a professional cleaning to remove the tartar buildup.

What are the signs of gum disease?
• Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
• Red or swollen gums that are extra sensitive
• Toothache
• Gums that have pulled back from the teeth
• Bad breath

Simply put, neglect of good dental hygiene practices can lead to the loss of a person's teeth. The good news is that in many cases a trained, experienced dentist can help to reverse the effects of gum disease easier and more precisely than ever using specialized laser technology to zap harmful bacteria and damaged tissue.

If you are experiencing signs of gum disease or want to ensure that your teeth remain as healthy as possible, please visit the website of Dr. Michael K. Chung, DDS at Softouch Dental Care in Oakton, Virginia, where the latest methods of treating gum disease are applied to improve patient health and comfort.

Source: Dr. Michael K. Chung, DDS
Website: http://www.softouchdentalcare.com/chung.htm

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