Did you know?

1. -There are more bacteria in your mouth, than there are people in the  world!  Over 6 BILLION.
   

2. -Four out of five people over the age of 35 have some amount of gum disease.
   

3. -When you bite off food for a child, your harmful bacteria are passed on to them.
   

4. -When you kiss someone with gum disease, their harmful bacteria is passed on to you.
   

Current research has established a connection between oral bacteria and the following diseases:

1. -Type 2 Diabetes
   

2. -Alzheimers Disease
   

3. -Blood Clots and Strokes
   

4. -Heart Disease
   

5. -Respiratory Disease
   

6. -Preterm and Low Birth Weight Babies
   

What is Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)?

Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can affect the bone that supports your teeth.  It is caused by plaque, a sticky, colourless film that constantly forms on your teeth.

If plaque is not removed through proper daily brushing and flossing, it can build up, infecting not only your gums and teeth, but eventually the bone that supports the teeth. This can cause your teeth to loosen, fall out, or need to be removed by a dentist.

If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, disease-causing bacteria are likely forming colonies in your mouth, causing localized inflammation and damage to your gum tissue. These bacteria can enter the blood stream through small ulcers in your gum tissue, which can lead to further health risks and even systemic diseases.

What are the Three Stages of Gum Disease?

Stage One:  Gingivitis

The gums are inflamed from a buildup of plaque on the gumline. If not removed with daily brushing and flossing, plaque produces toxins (poisons) that can irritate the gums, causing gingivitis. 

At this early stage, damage can be reversed, since the bone and the tissues that hold the teeth in place have not yet been affected.  Signs of this early stage include some bleeding during brushing and flossing.

Stage Two: Periodontitis

The supporting bone and the fibers that hold your teeth in place are now irreversibly damaged.  Gums may begin to form pockets below the gumline, trapping food and plaque.  Proper dental treatment and improved home care can often help prevent further damage.

Stage Three: Advanced Periodontitis

In the final stage of gum disease, the bone and fibers supporting your teeth are destroyed, causing your teeth to shift or loosen. This may affect your bite and, if aggressive treatment can't save them, teeth may need to be removed.

Signs That You May Have Gum Disease

The early stages of gum disease are not always easy to self detect.  That’s why regular periodontal examinations with your hygienist and dentist are so important.  Symptoms often remain unnoticed until the disease is advanced.  They can include:

1. -Persistent bad breath
   

2. -Red or swollen gums
   

3. -Tender or bleeding gums
   

4. -Painful chewing
   

5. -Loose teeth
   

6. -Sensitive teeth
   

If you are concerned that you may have gum disease, contact our office today to book an appointment or a free consultation.  Call (416) 751-4290 or click here to request a time. 

Also, be sure to join the Warden Eglinton Dental Centre on Facebook to keep up with things happening in our practice that effect you and your family’s oral health and wellness!

                                                                    - Dr. Jules Litwin

For more information, visit us at http://www.wedental.ca.