The Truth About Periodontal Disease

Periodontal, or gum, disease, is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is a very serious disease that can result in tooth loss, but it is generally painless, so we might not know we even have it. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, consequences of this disease may include higher risk of stroke and heart attack. Gum disease is silently affecting more than 50 million Americans, and most are not seeking treatment.

The main cause of periodontal disease is bacterial plaque, the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on teeth. This plaque causes the gums to become swollen and tender. The plaque builds up on and around the teeth, causing the gums to become red, sensitive and bleeding. This condition is known as gingivitis, which affects more than 50 percent of the population.

Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, causing the gums to separate from the teeth and form pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums). When the bacterial plaque enters into these pockets, the area becomes infected. Although there isn’t much pain associated with gum disease, the consequences of this affliction can be discomforting, including an unhealthy smile, in which the gums pull back from the teeth; offensive bad breath; gums that become infected and bleed; and teeth that become loose, possibly fall out or have to be removed.

Those that think they may have gum disease or might be at risk for getting it should consult their dentist for the most advanced treatment options now available.

Maryam Safai, DDS, owns and operates the Center for Dentistry & Functional Medicine, located at 800 Wyckoff Ave., in Wyckoff. For appointments, call 201- 891-4425. For more information, visit BeautyBySafai.com.