Why Are You So Obsessed With Perio Disease?

Do you sometimes think we’re obsessed with periodontal disease? It’s possible we are—and with good reason! Most of the population has some level of gingivitis or periodontitis (the two stages of “gum” disease). Only 7% are being treated, even though gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss.

 

In cases of gingivitis—the early stage of periodontal disease—your gums are inflamed or swollen with pockets around 4mm deep. Your bone is still intact, but the size of the pockets shows your supporting structures are detaching. Pockets deepening to 6mm indicate early periodontitis and the loss of bone beneath your gum tissue. If the pockets deepen more, your teeth will start to loosen and surgery will be necessary to save your teeth. If the pockets deepen too much, even surgery will not save your teeth.

 

Once gum disease begins, it cannot be cured—it can be managed or treated, but it will come back unless you stay on top of it with careful brushing and flossing and dental cleanings at the interval recommended by your dentist, dental hygienist or periodontist.

 

Gum disease often doesn’t hurt in its early stages, but this is when it is most easily treated. Perhaps you have nothing to worry about, but perhaps you do and just don’t know it. If you’re not visiting a dentist regularly, how would you know? This is just one reason why regular dental visits are important.

*Note: Information in this article is not intended to replace the clin;ical judgement of your healthcare providers. 

 

If you want to win the battle against gum disease, Dr. Jennifer Robb would love to add you to her dental office! Please call 440-960-1940 to reserve your spot. Dr. Robb is located at 1612 Cooper Foster Park Rd. in Lorain. You can also join Dr. Robb’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/DrJenniferRobb or check www.drjrobb.com