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Periodontal disease (gum disease), is a bacterial infection of the
tissue surrounding the teeth; causing localized and systemic
inflammation. It may be accompanied locally by loss of supporting
tissue and bone. The cause of periodontal disease is a bacterial
film known as plaque. As plaque accumulates, the normal bacteria
located around teeth begin to change into more virulent and
pathogenic bacteria. It is these species of pathogenic bacteria
that are responsible for the ensuing infection and destruction of
surrounding bone.
Periodontal disease is usually diagnosed by measuring bone loss visible
on x-rays and “pocket depth” with a periodontal probe around
teeth, which is indicative of the amount of surrounding bone and
attachment loss. It is these findings along with visible
inflammation and bleeding upon probing that lead to a periodontal
disease diagnosis. |
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Periodontal disease may occur as gingivitis
(inflammation of the soft tissues only) or periodontitis
(infection of the soft tissue and supporting bone). As
periodontitis progresses, it destroys the support of the teeth and
initiates a local and systemic inflammatory response. It is this
secondary inflammatory response and circulating bacteria that is
suspect in the: |
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pathogenesis of cardiovascular and
cerebrovascular disease
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complications with glycemic control and
associated pathologies
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orthopedic implant failure due to oral bacteria
induced infection
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complications with pulmonary disease
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contribution to pre-term, low weight babies
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Periodontitis can exist as mild, moderate or
severe. As the severity of periodontitis increases, so does its
suspected contribution to the conditions mentioned above. |
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Periodontal disease can progress into advanced forms resulting in
loose teeth and eventually loss of teeth. |
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Quick Facts
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
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Bleeding gums
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Sore or
swollen gums
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Loose
teeth
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Gum
recession
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Chronic
bad breadth
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Pus
around teeth
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Pain
upon chewing
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Recent
bite change
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Spaces
between teeth
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Food accumulation in gums
If
you have one or more of these symptoms, you may have
periodontal disease. |
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Now that we know what periodontal disease is and that it may have a
strong association with cardiovascular disease, pre-term/low
weight babies, diabetes, orthopedic implant failure, and pulmonary
disease, here is what we can do about it.... |
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