Periodontal gum disease strikes about 85% of Americans after 35. Gum Disease is a dental infection that attacks the gums and bone around the teeth. Perio- means around and -dontal means teeth so the word periodontal means around the teeth. Since it effects the gums surround the teeth, many patients call it gum disease but dentists refer to it as periodontal disease. If untreated it can progress with complete tooth loss and susequent need for tooth extractions and complete dentures. Gum disease treatment is most effective when it is begun early before significant bone loss occurs.
Periodontal gum disease progresses slowly and over 10 to 20 years destroys the bone supporting the teeth. At first the gums are swollen but as it progresses more bone is destroyed until teeth become loose and fall out. The remaining teeth look long with their roots exposed. The tissue bleeds and the patient often has bad breath. It is known that gum disease can affect general health and there are relationships between diabetes and periodontal disease along with periodontal disease, heart attacks and strokes.
Periodontal gum disease ruins the protective barrier against the teeth and allows infection to enter the body. The swollen gum allows bacteria to get into the blood. The resulting bacteremia complicates medical problems and predisposes the patient to heart attack, stroke or a low birth weight baby. Diabetics have elevated blood sugar and their gum problems are much worse than average. More and more, research is showing that a dental problem can lead to serious medical problems. It makes good sense to take care of your teeth!
The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC offer treatments for periodontal gum disease and you are welcome to join their family of patients. Healthy gums not only frame a beautiful smile, but they are necessary for good general health. Our Atlanta Dental Group PC dentists are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being and offer comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry including periodontal treatment, periodontal surgery and nonsurgical periodontal therapy options. In most cases, treatment usually begins with periodontal scaling and root planing. Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, the group's senior dentist, supervises most patients with gum problems. If you wish to schedule a free dental consultation with Dr. Padolsky, call 404-874-7428. It could possibly be the very best thing you have ever done.