Preventive Dentistry Oakland, CA
Gum Disease Can Lead to Lost Teeth
Most tooth loss is the result of gum disease, not decay. It can often go unnoticed until the infection has
reached the advanced stages and you are losing teeth. If you have symptoms of bleeding gums from brushing
or loose teeth, contact our gum disease treatment dentist in Oakland, CA immediately. Gum disease can be reversed with nonsurgical methods if treatment
is started in early stages.
How Gum Disease Affects Overall Health
There have been demonstrated links between gum disease and life-threatening conditions such as cardiovascular
disease, stroke, and diabetes. Dentists are taking the findings of recent medical research seriously, as gum
disease can have a more profound effect on your health than just tooth loss. The American Dental Association
estimates nearly 80% of Americans have some level of gum disease. Dentists consider this evidence of an epidemic.
The American Academy of Periodontology states, “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.”
There Is Hope!
Advanced gum disease typically requires surgery. (Please visit our
Dental Laser page for information on laser
treatment for gum disease.) But in cases where the infection is in milder stages, nonsurgical methods combined
with improved dental hygiene can be used to control and even reverse the condition. Both procedures are often
covered by most dental insurance plans.
The Truth About Lost Teeth
Many people think losing a tooth isn’t a big deal, but the truth is that even just one missing tooth can cause problems.
It affects proper chewing and interferes with absorbing nutrients from your food properly. It may become difficult to
chew, so softer foods of higher calorie content may be favored, which results in weight gain. Your face may take on a
hollowed look that increases as bone loss in the jaw occurs. Your speech may not always be understandable and cause embarrassment.
The best way to restore a full dental arch is with
dental implants. They can replace as many teeth as you have missing,
and they look natural and function as if they were your own teeth.
Arresting Gum Disease
We now offer patients a potent antibiotic called ARESTIN™. It is a powder containing tiny microspheres that are
time-released and applied directly to the infection site. It painlessly kills the bacteria in the gums, allowing them
to heal and return to health.
Another option we offer is called Perio Protect™, which is as easy as wearing a teeth whitening tray! Gum disease can be treated quickly and effectively, but only when the medication does not get washed away by naturally occurring saliva. Perio Protect’s special trays ensures the medication stays in place so healing can occur as it should.
Oral DNA Testing – What Are the Patient Benefits?
Using oral DNA testing, we determine a patient’s genetic predisposition to inflammatory gum infections. This also reveals the
types of bacteria, leading to more effective treatment. These quick tests are noninvasive and allow us to outline a unique
treatment just for you.
We can help you arrest gum disease and bring your smile back to health again. Give us a call today at (510) 530-7000 for Preventive Dentistry in Oakland, CA.
