Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease) and Tooth Loss
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is the leading cause of tooth loss. The CDC reports that nearly half of the American population has periodontal disease. I repeat, almost half of America has gum disease. This huge chronic disease needs to be taken seriously. More teeth are lost to gum disease than decay or trauma. If you were diagnosed with gum disease that does not necessarily mean that you are about to lose all of your teeth. Gum disease occurs in stages and it is treatable is caught early enough.
Gum disease all begins with plaque, a colorless and sticky substance. Plaque is a bacterial colony that grows in the mouth at sticks to the teeth. Meticulous oral hygiene and routine professional cleanings can remove plaque before it causes harm. However, left unchecked the plaque builds up around the teeth. The gum tissue becomes irritated and will swell and start to bleed. This initial stage is called gingivitis and it is highly reversible.
With time, gingivitis will deteriorate and progress into periodontal disease. The gums become infected and the infection destroys the surrounding bone and gum tissues. Patients will notice the gums receding or pulling away from the tooth. Without proper a foundation, teeth will become loose and either fall out or need to be extracted.
Not only does gum disease damage your natural smile, it can also put your overall health at risk. Gum disease has been linked to several serious medical conditions, ranging from premature birth , Alzheimers, kidney disease, strokes, heart disease and diabetes. The good news is that gum disease is preventable by simply brushing as well as flossing and seeing Dr. Nugent’s Dental Hygienists for your six-month cleanings and checkups. The earlier our team detects gum disease, the easier it is to resolve. Procedures such as scaling and root planing for early gum disease or laser therapy for advanced gum disease can be used to eradicate the infection before it is too late.
Pasadena, Deer Park Dentist:
Dr. Nugent sees patients from Pasadena and Deer Park Texas. If you think you have gum disease call our office at 713-941-8261. The bad thing about gum disease is that it is not painful until it is to late. Discover why Dr. Nugent has been voted BEST PASADENA TEXAS DENTIST multiple times. Our office is located at 3421 Burke Rd Ste A, Pasadena, Texas 77504.
Come see why we are a different type of dental office.