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Gum Disease

Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults. Our hygienists do an outstanding job of educating our patients about the causes and prevention of gum disease. They are qualified to not only help Dr. Gilmore prevent gum disease, but they can also help treat the disease with specialized procedures for which they have years of training and experience.

Here are some questions and answers that will better help you understand gum disease:

What is periodontal (gum) disease?
Periodontal disease or gum disease, a chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissue, is the major cause of about 70 percent of adult tooth loss, affecting three out of four persons.

What causes periodontal disease?
Bacterial plaque a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on the teeth is recognized as the primary cause of periodontal disease. If plaque isn't removed each day by brushing and flossing, it hardens into a rough, porous substance called calculus (also known as tartar). Toxins (poisons) produced and released by bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. These toxins cause the breakdown of the fibers that hold the gums tightly to the teeth, creating periodontal pockets which fill with even more toxins and bacteria. As the disease progresses, pockets extend deeper and the bacteria move down until the bone that holds the tooth in place is destroyed. The tooth will eventually require removal.

Are there other factors?
Yes. Genetics is also a factor, as are lifestyle choices. A diet low in nutrients can diminish the body's ability to fight infection. Smokers and chewing tobacco users have more irritation to gum tissues than those who don't.  Diseases that interfere with the body's immune system, such as leukemia and AIDS, may worsen the condition of the gums.

In patients who have uncontrolled diabetes gum disease can be more severe and difficult to control.

What are the warning signs of periodontal disease?
Signs can include red, swollen or tender gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing you teeth, gums that pull away from teeth, loose or separating teeth, pus between the gum and tooth, persistent bad breath, change in the way teeth fit together when biting, and a change in the fit of partial dentures. While patients are advised to check for the warning signs, there might not be any discomfort until the disease has spread to a point where the tooth is unsalvageable. This why patients are advised to get frequent dental exams and cleanings.

What does periodontal treatment involve?
In the early stages, most treatment involves scaling and root planing that removes plaque and calculus around the tooth and smoothes the root surfaces. Antibiotics or antimicrobials may be used to supplement the effects of scaling and root planing. In most cases of early gum disease, scaling and root planing and proper daily cleaning can achieve a satisfactory result. More advanced cases may require surgical treatment.


I've been told that in gum surgery, they just gut your gums away, leaving the teeth looking long?
Gum disease often results in the recession of the gums, causing the teeth to look longer. In the past, the cutting away of the gums, called gingivectomy, also made the teeth look longer. Newer techniques have been developed that require less removal of tissue and superior results.

How do you prevent periodontal disease?
Removing plaque through daily brushing, flossing and professional cleaning is the best way to minimize your risk.

What is the role of the general dentist?
The general dentist usually detects periodontal disease and treats it in the early stages. If you suspect you have gum disease, you should visit a dentist. Some dental offices, such as ours, have the additional expertise to treat more advanced conditions of the disease. If Dr. Gilmore feels that the periodontal disease requires additional treatment, the patient will be referred to a specialist called a periodontist.

Is maintenance important?
Patients should visit the dentist a minimum of twice per year for a thorough cleaning and an overall exam. Many patients will require 3 to 4 visits per year to maintain optimal dental health. In between visits, patients are advised to brush at least twice a day, floss daily, and brush their tongue.

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Last modified: 08/09/05