Do you have periodontal disease?
It has been reported that 3 out of every 4 Americans have signs of mild periodontal disease or gingivitis. Almost 30% show signs of the more severe disease, chronic periodontitis. We now have reason to believe that the health of your teeth and gums may have a significant effect on the overall health of your body. Recent scientific literature suggests a strong relationship between oral disease and other systemic diseases and medical conditions.
Download the Oral-Systemic facts of Gum Disease PDF that summarizes what is simply captured in this statement, “what happens in your mouth…does NOT stay in your mouth!”
Following are a series of questions you may want to ask and answer to judge whether you are at risk for gum disease or periodontal disease.
- Do your gums bleed?
- Do you have a bad taste in your mouth?
- Are your gums red or swollen?
- Do any of your teeth feel loose?
- Do you currently suffer from diabetes, heart disease, rhuematoid arthritis, osteopenia or an unusual amount of stress?
- Do you brush and floss at least twice a day?
- Do you have numerous fillings, bridges, crowns in your mouth?
- Are your gums loose or move away from your teeth?
- Is there an area where your gums have receded (moved up or down) and make your teeth appear longer?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, chances are you have some form of periodontal disease and need treatment.
There is no cure for bone loss due to periodontal disease. However, the health of the mouth can be returned to a healthy state through proper and frequent supportive periodontal cleanings and proper home care.
Once you have gum disease you will always have it, especially if one or more of the risk factors mentioned above are present and uncontrolled. Periodontal disease can be prevented provided none of the other risk factors are part of the equation with proper home care and consistent visits to your dentist.
If you suffer from any inflammatory diseases like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, then you are at high risk for developing gum disease. These systemic diseases when not controlled can contribute to the development of periodontal disease because they make it harder for your body to fight off infection and inflammation.
Prioritize your health today! Make an appointment to assess your risk of periodontal disease:
Click here to use our online form or call (678) 639–0080.
