The most common assumption is that tooth loss is due to decay. But most teeth are lost due to gum disease. It can progress without any symptoms right up to an advanced stage, when you could lose your teeth. Signs of this kind of infection are bleeding gums from flossing or brushing and loose teeth. If it is treated at an early stage, surgery can be avoided and instead, nonsurgical methods would be the treatment.
Gum Disease Linked to Serious Health Conditions
It is a startling statistic that 8 out of 10 American adults have periodontal (gum) disease. The American Dental Association has identified this problem as reaching epidemic proportions. Other medical research has made a link between gum disease and stroke, diabetes, and heart and lung diseases. Dentists now recognize gum infection to be more serious than just losing your teeth – it can be a life-threatening condition!As the bacteria from the gums circulates throughout your bloodstream, it can often have an effect on other organs or health conditions. The American Academy of Periodontology reports that “studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases.”
At the First Warning Signs
It is important not to wait to come into our office at the first signs of bleeding gums or loose teeth. Periodontal problems can be treated nonsurgically and more easily when they are just beginning. Once they are advanced, surgery will be necessary. Both types of treatments are covered by most dental insurance companies.
What’s the Problem with a Missing Tooth?
Even one missing tooth can cause other problems that you should avoid. Not having a full set of upper and lower teeth can cause other teeth to start to shift. It also affects chewing and obtaining nutrition from your food. Your face will eventually take on a sunken look without the support of a full set of teeth. Speech may not be as clear as it should be. And you may gain weight, if you start to eat softer, higher-calorie foods. Dental implants provide the best solution, and they can replace one or many missing teeth. They look natural, function just like the real deal, and no one will ever know they are not your teeth.
An Easy Way to Defeat Gum Disease
Periodontal (gum) disease is the main reason for tooth loss. Dr. Baker uses ARESTIN™ to combat the infection and successfully return your gums to a healthy state. It is an antibiotic in a powder form and contains invisible microspheres that time-release the medication directly to the infection. It does its job by killing the bacteria in the pockets between gums and teeth. And the best part is, there is no pain in the process.
What is Wellness Dentistry?
Everyone is familiar with going to the doctor when you get sick. But what about going to a doctor when you are not ill, so you won’t become sick?Taking measures to prevent illness from occurring is wellness care. We always go a step further in our practice in order to avoid dental problems later on. We do the basics like repairing teeth and examining gums for their health. But we go beyond that with a very thorough examination. We observe your bite, check for oral cancer and gum disease, and look for signs of wear and anything else that looks out of the ordinary. We are pro-active for your benefit of healthy gums and teeth and so you will spend less time in the dental chair.
Baker Cosmetic & Family Dentistry
Craig J. Baker, DMD, PL
13501 Icot Boulevard, Suite 101
Clearwater, FL 33760
(727) 531-4462
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