Periodontal Disease: Protecting the Foundation of Your Smile
The health of your gums plays a crucial role in maintaining the strength, stability, and overall wellness of your smile. Periodontal diseases—commonly referred to as gum diseases—are infections that can gradually destroy the supporting structures of your natural teeth. At our practice, Dr. Kristen Frazier is dedicated to helping you protect your gums with personalized care and preventative solutions.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is most often caused by bacterial plaque, a colorless, sticky film that forms on your teeth at the gumline. If not removed through daily brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar (calculus), which further irritates the gums and creates an environment for infection. Over time, untreated gum disease can lead to pockets forming between the teeth and gums, bone loss, and ultimately tooth loss.
Why Is Oral Hygiene So Important?
Did you know that adults over the age of 35 lose more teeth to gum disease than to cavities? It’s a prevalent condition, affecting approximately three out of four adults at some point in their lives. Good oral hygiene—thorough brushing and flossing performed daily—is the most effective way to prevent both cavities and periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease doesn’t only impact your oral health. Gum infections can lead to discomfort, appearance changes, and even systemic health issues. Dr. Kristen Frazier emphasizes the importance of preventative care to maintain the health of your gums and the foundation of your smile.
What Causes Gum Disease to Progress?
While plaque is the primary cause, several factors can accelerate the progression of periodontal disease:
- Smoking: Significantly increases the risk of gum infections.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed blood sugar can worsen gum health.
- Stress: Weakens your body’s ability to fight infection.
- Clenching and grinding: Can strain the supporting tissues.
- Certain medications: May reduce saliva flow and impact gum health.
- Poor nutrition: Affects your body’s ability to heal and maintain tissue health.
- Pregnancy: Untreated gum disease is linked to premature birth as well as lower birth weight.
Dr. Frazier works closely with patients to identify risk factors and create tailored care plans to manage gum health effectively.
Preventing Gum Disease
Preventative care is key to fighting gum disease. Regular brushing and flossing remove plaque before it has a chance to harden into tartar. Professional cleanings and examinations are also essential for identifying early signs of gum disease and addressing them promptly. Even with diligent home care, some individuals may still develop periodontal disease due to genetic susceptibility or other factors. Once diagnosed, professional treatment is necessary to prevent further progression.
What Happens If Gum Disease Goes Untreated?
When gum disease progresses, the bacteria in plaque release toxins that irritate the gums, causing them to swell, turn red, and bleed easily. Over time, the gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets where more bacteria can accumulate. If left untreated, these pockets deepen, and the supporting bone and tissue deteriorate, leading to tooth instability and loss. Regular care and early intervention can prevent this cycle and preserve your smile.
Maintaining Healthy Gums
Dr. Kristen Frazier is passionate about helping patients maintain strong, healthy gums through a combination of preventative care and periodontal maintenance. She recommends:
- Daily oral hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss regularly.
- Professional cleanings: Remove plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be addressed with home care.
- Lifestyle adjustments: Quit smoking, eat a balanced diet, and manage stress.
If you have any concerns about your gum health, Dr. Frazier is here to provide expert care and guidance. Together, we can protect the foundation of your smile and ensure lasting oral health.