Health ShortsDentistry
Don't Let Gum Disease Gnaw at You
Healthy gums are associated with overall good health and a lower risk of heart disease. When your dentist talks to you about gum disease, he or she is usually referring to one of two conditions: Gingivitis, a mild, early form that affects a large percentage of Americans, occurs when gums become inflamed by the presence of plaque along the gum line. While gums may not be noticeably sore, they are red, slightly swollen and tender and may bleed with vigorous brushing. Gingivitis will subside when plaque is removed by regular brushing or flossing and by more thorough cleaning by a dental hygienist. Chronic periodontal disease, which is more likely to be associated with a higher risk of heart disease, occurs when dental plaque and tartar spread beneath the gum line, developing pockets, irritating gum tissue and causing gums to detach from teeth. Eventually, teeth will loosen and even fall out. Treatment may require oral surgery or ultrasonic scaling and root planing.
[SOURCE: "Maintaining Healthy Teeth and Gums," Mayo Clinic Health Letter Medical Essay, June, 2002] Gum Disease Takes Toll
At least 75 percent of Americans have suffered from periodontal disease at some time in their lives, according to a report by the American Dental Association. Severe gum disease affects about 25 percent of seniors, ages 65 to 74.
[SOURCE: "Study Cites High Incidence of Periodontal Disease," Chain Drug Review, October 9, 2000] No Vacation from Oral Hygiene
For the sake of science, a small group of dental students took a vacation from brushing and flossing. After 21 days, they all showed signs of periodontal disease, with plaque and noticeable inflammation. Most Americans don't neglect dental hygiene for as long as three weeks, but even a few days is sufficient for plaque to harden to the point that it can be removed only by professional cleaning. Flossing is essential to remove the plaque between the teeth and to stimulate the gums.
[SOURCE: "Gingivitis Can Gain Foothold Quickly," Health & Medicine Week, April 2, 2001] Pregnant Women: See Your Dentist
A pregnant woman has good reason to maintain good oral hygiene and visit her dentist regularly. One study concluded that a woman with gum disease has a seven-fold increased risk of delivering her baby prematurely.
[SOURCE: "Pregnant? Call the Dentist: Baby Your Gums To cut the Risk of Early Delivery," Prevention, February, 2002; Journal of the American Dental Association, July, 2001] | ArchiveAIDS & HIV |
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