Periodontal (gum) disease is basically a bacterial infection with associated inflammation of the pockets between the gums and the teeth. On average, It is prevalent in approximately 1/3 of the population, typically occurring quietly and painlessly–but it can prove disastrous to your long-term oral and overall health.
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Patients whose bodies show evidence of an inflammatory reaction to the bacteria associated with periodontitis may also have an increased risk of developing heart disease, with some studies showing people with gum disease at a 2-4 times greater risk for heart attack. Gum tissue inside the mouth is full of blood vessels that allow for transmittal of bad bacteria to other parts of the body, and some of the bacteria responsible for gum disease have been discovered in the plaques that clog the arteries of those with cardiovascular problems. Other conditions that are linked to gum disease are pregnancy complications and respiratory disease.
Gum disease is a disease that involves inflammation which is manifested in redness, swelling, and bleeding of the tissues. Research has demonstrated that there are correlations between periodontal disease and other chronic inflammatory diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, treating oral inflammation may not only help manage periodontal disease, but may also help with the management of other chronic inflammatory conditions.
It is common knowledge that due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, many women will have gingivitis or bleeding gums. But there is some evidence pregnant women who have periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small. There is also evidence that should a pregnant woman’s periodontal condition worsen during pregnancy, there is a much higher risk of premature birth.
Although there are certain genetic predilections for periodontal disease, it is a preventable and treatable condition. This is one reason why it is important to see your dentist for regular exams and professional cleanings in which your dentist and hygienist will make sure that you are not developing gum disease. Our comprehensive exam includes a thorough screening of all patients for any stage of gum disease.
Every year, cardiovascular disease kills more Americans than cancer. While many people are aware that lifestyle choices such as nutrition, exercising and quitting smoking can help prevent cardiovascular disease, they may not know that by simply brushing and flossing daily they could prevent a host of serious systemic conditions such as heart disease.
The way we treat periodontitis or gum disease is based upon the severity of the gum infection and individual needs presented by each patient. Typical gum disease treatment will involve a special deep cleaning to remove any mineral buildup above and below the gum line, and–most importantly–to remove the bacterial biofilm that allows the bacteria to damage the gum tissue. Usually several weeks after a deep cleaning, your Victoria dentists will follow up to confirm that the infection has resolved. If there are local spots where it has not, then we may follow up with topical antibiotic gel or even use of a special laser that eliminates bad bacteria and accelerates the healing process.
Our office is conveniently located off East Mockingbird Lane, between John Stockbauer Rd., and Sam Houston Dr.
110 Professional Park Dr.
Victoria, TX 77904
| Mon - Thu |
| 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
