Gum disease is an infection in the gums which can move to the bones surrounding the teeth once it progresses. This causes bone loss around the roots and supporting structure of the teeth. When that happens, bacteria gets into your bone and bloodstream and can become a systemic problem leading to an increase of stroke risk, diabetes and heart disease.
Most cases of periodontal or gum disease develop because of bacterial plaque that builds up on teeth over time. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film that stimulates an inflammatory response of the gum tissue.
Although plaque is the most common cause of periodontal disease, lifestyle or hereditary factors play a significant role in the health of the gums. Patients with tobacco use may be at a higher risk for developing periodontal disease because tobacco tends to increase plaque leading to an increase in bone and gum infection. The most common symptoms of gum and periodontal disease are as follows:
- Swollen and bleeding gums
- Toothache
- Bad Breath
- Loose or separating teeth
- Change in the way the teeth fit together
In understanding that good health starts with a healthy mouth, Dr. Viechnicki and her hygiene team will review options with you to get you back to oral health. We have leading-edge technology in our hygiene department to assist in the gentle and thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums, customized to each patient’s individual health needs. We offer LANAP treatment for periodontitis. For patients who require additional therapies, antibiotics such as minocycline or Arestin are utilized. When strategically placed in the gum area surrounding the tooth, the antibiotic is time released to destroy the bacteria. Additionally, a soft tissue laser can be used to remove infected gum tissue by debriding the bacteria safely and keeping post-treatment infection less likely.
