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Los Gatos Dentist Explains the Facts of Periodontal Disease

“Periodontal Disease” is a term that many people have heard but are often unaware of the nature of the disease, its causes, symptoms and treatment. At Los Gatos Dental we frequently see patients who don’t fully understand the seriousness of it or the potential it has to impact their lives. Let’s start with a simplified explanation of “Periodontal Disease”:

Periodontal disease (gum disease, periodontitis) has a number of causes, but basically when bacteria in your mouth are allowed to go unchecked; they build up around your teeth at the gum line causing an infection of the gum tissue, ultimately leading to loose, unstable teeth or even tooth loss. The absence of proper dental hygiene is the primary factor leading to gum disease. But you may be surprised to learn that there are other contributing factors as well, all of which can lead to periodontal disease:

Poor dental hygiene: Bacteria lingering in your mouth are the cause of gum disease. A combination of thorough home care and professional dental care are essential elements in avoiding the onset of periodontal disease.
Tobacco use: Research has indicated that smoking and tobacco use is one of the most significant factors in the development and progression of gum disease.
Genetic predisposition: Even with rigorous oral hygiene routines, a large percentage of the population may have a strong genetic predisposition to gum disease. This can significantly increase your chances of developing periodontal disease.
Pregnancy and menopause: Hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause can increase your gums’ sensitivity, potentially leading to gum disease.
Chronic stress and poor diet: Stress and/or poor diet lower the ability of your immune system to fight infection, leaving you more prone to periodontal disease.
Diabetes and other medical issues: Conditions such as diabetes, respiratory disease, heart disease and osteoporosis can intensify the progress of gum disease.
Grinding teeth: Grinding or “clenching” your teeth can also accelerate the progression of gum disease.
Medications: Oral contraceptives, heart medication, anti-depressants and steroids contribute to the overall condition of teeth and gums; making them more susceptible to periodontal disease.

Many new patients at our Los Gatos, CA Dentist Office are unaware that they have Periodontal Disease because it often progresses without showing any signs or symptoms (such as pain) normally associated with other dental issues. That is why regular dental checkups are vitally important. Described below are some of the most common signs and symptoms of Periodontal Disease:

• Unexplained bleeding while brushing, flossing or eating
• Pain, redness or swelling of the gums
• Longer-looking teeth caused by receding gums, resulting in a “toothy” smile
• Bad breath due to food particles stuck between teeth and under the gum line
• Loose teeth/change in bite pattern resulting from loss of gum tissue
• Pus appearing between the teeth caused by the body’s attempt to fight the bacterial infection

If you experience any of the above, you need to contact your dentist or Periodontal professional immediately. You may be avoiding periodontal treatment because you have experienced painful surgery in the past. At Los Gatos Periodontal Dentist we have had specialized training and education to treat gum disease. We use advanced, state of the art, non-invasive laser treatments to eliminate gum disease quickly, and your comfort is of the utmost importance to our team.

Unfortunately, Periodontal Disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the developed world today. But you do not have to become one of the statistics! With proper dental hygiene and regular cleanings and exams, it is highly preventable and easily treated.