The Healthy Rotarian #29: Save those Teeth!
Posted by Janet Sipple
on Jul 06, 2015
The young adult (30-40 yrs.) is the most likely age group for gum disease which can range from a simple inflammation, swollen and bleeding gums (gingivitis) to periodontitis a serious infection of the deeper gums around the tooth. Risk factors include smoking, hormonal changes in girls and women, poor mouth hygiene habits, genetic susceptibility, some diseases such as diabetes & other immune suppression diseases, and medications that reduce salvia in the mouth, e.g. antihistamines. Symptoms of gingivitis include bad breathe that doesn't go away, bleeding gums, tender red-swollen gums, painful chewing, loose teeth, sensitive teeth and receding gums.
The mouth is host to lots of bacteria - thus when allowed to go unchecked it can cause plaque, tartar, and gum disease. Plaque is a sticky, colorless substance made up of bacteria, mucus, and particles. Gingivitis does not damage the gums, bone, or tooth; however, unattended to progresses to a complex infection that will destroy gum tissue, bone, & the tooth root leading to loss of teeth, bone, and tissue. In advanced gum disease the gum pulls away from teeth forming spaces called "pockets" which may become infected. Prevention requires daily brushing, flossing, and removal of food retained in any gum "pockets" along with dental inspection/cleaning at least twice a year.
The immune system fights as plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. Bacteria toxins and the body's natural immune response to infection start to break down bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. Plaque turns to tartar within hours when dental cleansing is not initiated. If you are unable to battle gum inflammation with your dental hygiene scheme see your dentist four times a year. A dental professional may perform a deep cleaning, scaling and root planing if indicated or recommend the use of medication to control the inflammatory process based on the severity. Surgical intervention will be indicated as medical treatments are found to be ineffective.
Your dental insurance only covers twice a year cleanings; however, personal pay for two additional visits is MUCH cheaper than extensive gum surgery and loss of teeth with the need for dental implants and/or dental apparatuses. Contact our own member, Dr. Charlie for further details.
Keep those bright smiles healthy and your teeth clean with your personal actions.
Nurse Sipple
