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“Periodontal Disease, The Silent Disease”

By Dr. Matt “Nik” Nikpourfard, My Belmont Dentistry

Do your gums bleed while brushing? Let me be the first to tell you, it is not normal for your gums to be swollen or bleed while brushing. It is often a sign of a bigger issue. My name is Dr. Nik and I am a dentist in Ashburn who wants to help educate you about this important topic.

In a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2012, one out of every two Americans over age 30 has periodontal disease. This equates to 64.7 million adults who have some degree of periodontitis. In adults over 65, prevalence rates increase to 70.1 percent. * With proper exams and education we can reverse this staggering statistic.

Below are a few of the most commonly asked questions on this matter.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is the destruction of the bone and soft tissue that supports the tooth and the gum. The bone eventually pulls away from the tooth causing pockets or space between the tooth and gum, thereby allowing bacteria to enter. This space eventually becomes infected. If not treated, the tooth/teeth become loose and can fall out. This disease is known as the “Silent” disease because it is not painful until it is in advanced stages.

What causes Periodontal Disease?

Plaque left on teeth will harden and become known as “tartar.” The body’s immune system fights this bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. In an effort to get rid of the bacteria, the cells of our immune system release substances that inflame and damage the gums, periodontal ligament or alveolar bone. This leads to swollen, bleeding gums -- a sign of gingivitis (the earliest stage of periodontal disease.)

What are the risk factors related to Periodontal Disease?

The bacteria in plaque are the main cause of periodontal disease. But several other factors include:

1. Poor oral hygiene

2. Not getting regular dental check ups/cleanings

3. Smoking/Tobacco use

4. Diabetes

5. Hormonal changes in women

6. Genetic susceptibility

7. Stroke, heart attack and kidney problems

How can I prevent Periodontal Disease?

There are 4 simple steps to avoid periodontal disease.

Brush teeth twice a day (with a fluoride toothpaste.)
Floss daily to remove plaque from between teeth. Use a special brush or a wooden/plastic pick recommended by a dental professional.
Visit the dentist routinely (once every six months) for a professional cleaning. Cleanings will keep plaque under control in hard to reach places.
Don’t smoke.
What is a Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluation?

The American Academy of Periodontology recommends that everybody should receive a comprehensive periodontal evaluation annually. This very simple procedure includes:

1. Full mouth X-rays

2. Periodontal probing, measurement of gum recession and tooth mobility Probing is when a dentist or hygienist uses an instrument that is long, thin, and blunted at the end with miller meter markings. The probe measures pocket depths around a tooth.

My team at Belmont Dentistry would like to welcome you into our office for a complimentary Periodontal Evaluation. Mention that you read our offer in PATCH and we will be happy to waive our fees. Call 703-723-1200 to make an appointment or visit us online www.mybelmontdentistry.com.

* Journal of Dental Research, the official publication of the International and American Associations for Dental Research.