Tuesday, January 15, 2013

What Is Gum (Periodontal) Disease? You May Be Eligible to Participate in a Clinical Trial

Dr. Genco is seeking volunteers who think they may have gum disease for a clinical research study to find out which germs make gum disease worse. Participants will receive care and be compensated for their time and travel. To qualify you must be at least 25 years old, have 20 natural teeth and have not used tobacco products for at least a year. You also cannot have Diabetes. To learn more, call Shannon at 716.829.6306.

Gum (periodontal) disease is an infection of the gums and surrounding tissues that hold the teeth in place. The two forms of gum disease are gingivitis, a mild form that is reversible with good oral hygiene, and periodontitis, a more severe form that can damage the soft tissues and bone that support teeth. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.

In its early stages, gum disease is usually painless, and many people are not aware that they have it. In more advanced cases, gum disease can cause sore gums and pain when chewing.

Dr. Robert Genco, DDS, PhD, of University at Buffalo School of Oral Biology says, "Eighty percent of U.S. adults will experience gum disease in their lifetime, causing inflammation, infection and even bone damage." He adds, "The good news is that gum disease can be prevented, and does not have to be a part of growing older. With thorough brushing and flossing and regular professional cleanings by your dentist, you can reduce your risk of developing gum disease as you age. If you have been treated for gum disease, sticking to a proper oral hygiene routine and visiting your dentist for regular cleanings can minimize the chances that it will come back."

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is often caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow dental plaque -- a sticky film of bacteria -- to build up on the teeth. Plaque can harden and form tartar that brushing doesn't remove. Only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar. Gum disease can range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease. The two forms of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis and Periodontitis

In gingivitis, the gums become red, swollen and bleed easily. Gingivitis can usually be reversed with daily brushing, flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. Gingivitis does not involve loss of bone and tissue that hold teeth in place. If gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis, where gums pull away from the teeth and form spaces (called "pockets") that become infected. The body's immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. Bacterial toxins and the body's natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If untreated, the bone, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed, teeth may become loose and may fall out or have to be removed.

Risk Factors and Prevention

Risk factors for developing periodontal disease include smoking, diabetes, medications that reduce flow of saliva, and predisposition due to genetic makeup. Dr. Genco offers the following tips to prevent gum disease:

* Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily.

* Visit your dentist routinely for a check-up and professional cleaning.

* Don't smoke.

* Eat a well-balanced diet

For more information, see "Eating Well As You Get Older" at http://nihseniorhealth.gov/eatingwellasyougetolder/benefitsofeatingwell/01.html.

Source: http://nihseniorhealth.gov/periodontaldisease


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