Slidell Dentist Explains the Facts of Periodontal Disease

“Periodontal Disease” is a phrase is often used in dentistry, but many people are unaware of the nature of the disease, its causes, symptoms and treatment. At the Slidell Family Dentist office 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”:

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 periodontal disease (gum disease). The lack of proper dental hygiene is the primary factor leading to gum disease, tut you may be surprised to learn that there are other contributing factors such as genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, poor diet, medications and tobacco use.

Many people 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. Here are some of the more common 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
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

If you experience any of the above, contact your dentist or Periodontal professional immediately. At the Slidell Dentist Office we have specialized training and education to treat gum disease. Your comfort is of the utmost importance to our team, and we use advanced, state of the art, non-invasive laser treatments to eliminate gum disease quickly.

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.