Weblog

Gum disease, also known as gingivitis and periodontal disease, affects about 30-50% of the global population, making it the second most common disease after dental decay. If left untreated, gum disease can ravage teeth and gums, eventually resulting in tooth loss. What people don’t know is that poor oral health can threaten your life in a big way. Advanced periodontal disease can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and diabetes. At your regular dental checkup, Dr. Curtis will screen for gum disease and take measures to prevent it from developing and spreading to the rest of your body.

It makes perfect sense. The mouth is a portal to your internal systems. Bacteria from your teeth and gums have easy access to your bloodstream to affect other organs in your body. Besides heart problems, researchers have found strong links between gum disease and high blood pressure, pregnancy complications and increased osteoporosis is women.

Many people are not even aware they have gum disease. Common symptoms include:

• Bleeding while brushing or chewing hard foods
• Swollen, red, or tender gums
• Pockets between the teeth and gums
• Halitosis (bad breath) or a persisting metallic taste in the mouth
• Loose teeth

The cornerstone of any periodontal treatment plan is excellent oral hygiene. Ask Dr. Curtis about proper flossing and brushing techniques, as well as hygiene products that reduce plaque-causing bacteria. Professional cleanings will eliminate plaque and bacteria that gather below the gum line and can’t be reached with over-the-counter hygiene tools. At your examination, we will inspect your soft tissues for gum disease and check each tooth for signs of decay. We offer preventive treatments, as well, including dental sealants and fluoride supplements.

Currently, there is no cure for gum disease. If we find that you have gum disease, we can arrest it, alleviate symptoms, and help you prevent recurrence. We offer several non-surgical periodontal therapies including:

• Scaling- removal of hardened plaque from teeth
• Root Planing-removal of calcified plaque from tooth roots below the gum line.
• Antibiotic Therapy-to fight infection

If your condition cannot be treated effectively with non-surgical therapies, Dr. Curtis can perform surgical procedures to stabilize your gum disease or reverse some of the damage to gum tissues. Our top priority is your overall health. Call Dr. Curtis in the Trumbull & Bridgeport CT area to schedule a checkup and cleaning. Early detection and treatment of gum disease can save you from big problems down the road!