Periodontal Disease and You

The best treatment for periodontal disease is to prevent it from even happening. Brushing and flossing twice a day, with regular dental cleanings and exams are very important to the prevention of periodontal disease.

If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, please understand premature tooth loss may not be your only problem or concern. Periodontal disease may also be linked to other health problems.

Heart Disease
Several studies have shown periodontal disease is associated with heart disease. While the exact cause/effect relationship has not currently been identified, research has indicated that periodontal disease increases the risk of heart disease.

Stroke
Additional studies have pointed to a relationship between periodontal disease and stroke.

Diabetes
Diabetic patients are more likely to develop periodontal disease, and periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar.

Systemic Diseases
Research has shown periodontal disease may be linked to osteoporosis due to loss in bone density.
Research has also shown bacteria that causes periodontal disease can be aspirated into the lungs causing lung diseases such as pneumonia.
And lastly, researchers found that patients with gum disease were 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer, 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and 30% more likely to develop blood cancers.

Periodontal Disease Treatment Management

The treatment of periodontal disease is generally a process. After we complete a comprehensive periodontal evaluation, which includes evaluating the bone and soft tissues around your teeth, my hygienists and I will determine whether periodontal disease is present or not.

If periodontal disease is present in your mouth, our dental team will provide you with the necessary treatment which may/will consist of:

-Scaling and Root Planning (extensive cleaning of the teeth)
-Antibiotic therapies directly/indirectly placed between the teeth and gums
-Laser periodontal therapy
-Oral mouth rinse and instructions
-Educational training of periodontal disease processes and their prevention
-Home care tactics and strategies

It is imperative you follow the home care instructions you will be given, as the cessation of periodontal disease is a team approach by both the patient and dental team.

If the periodontal disease process is not completely reversed, other treatment modalities may need to be implemented, such as gum and bone surgery to maintain the bone structure surrounding the tooth root, thus improving your oral health.
However, most patients respond well to periodontal disease treatment management procedures, thus preventing the need for periodontal surgery.

Good Oral Health Begins With You

We want all of our awesome patients to have healthy mouths. We know that great oral health care can also benefit your overall health. Oral health takes a team, and it starts with you. Brushing and flossing morning and night, regular dental cleanings and exams, and healthy eating is critical to good oral health care.

Thank you for allowing us to be part of your oral health team!

Sincerely,
Your Team at Thorup Dental
Dr. Rob, Chelsie, Jenna, Kirsten, and Nichelle
www.thorupdental.com