GUM & BONE DISEASES

The starting point for gum and bone disease is a bad oral hygiene and bad dental restorations. A simple gum inflammation is called gingivitis and can be treated through cleaning. On the other hand, periodontitis, a more serious infection, will affect not only the gum but also the bone. Treating periodontitis is more difficult and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. During your next visit, ask our dentists about the right way to brush and floss your teeth.

Gingivitis literally means inflammation of the gum or gingiva. As mentioned above, it’s the first stage of gum disease. The first symptoms of gingivitis are red, swollen gums that bleed easily during brushing. In general, there is little or no pain during this stage. The treatment of gingivitis is easy; it can be solved by several professional cleanings associated with appropriate hygiene at home. Gingivitis is completely reversible.

Periodontitis is a complication that stems from gingivitis. With time, the bacteria causing gingivitis will grow in numbers and will attack the tissue surrounding your teeth. At some point, the toxins produced by the bacteria will trespass your gum barrier and will eventually reach the bone. In return, your body’s immune system will produce a response to this inflammation, that will cause the destruction of the bone and tissues that support your teeth. The gum will then be separated from the tooth, forming a pocket that will also be infected. This pocket will increase if no treatment is done, causing more bone and gum loss. The treatment of Periodontitis consists of removing and cleaning the bacteria in the roots by a manual or surgical procedure. Sometimes bone grafts are done in order to save the tooth.

Professor Hani and Dr. Jeff KHOURY are the Periodontists at Khoury Dental Clinic. Together, they have more than 42 years of experience in the Gum and Bone disease branch. They are specialized not only in the treatment of gum and bone disease but also in the placement of dental implants. They are referred to by other dentists when a gum or bone graft is needed around the teeth and implants.

To become a Periodontist, a minimum of 3 years of studies is required after dental school. On top of that, Professor Hani and Doctor Jeff were trained to perform cosmetic periodontal procedures. Rest assured you will receive the best and most effective treatment for any of your gum problems.

Facts about Gum Disease

  • Did you know that gum disease is linked to heart disease?

People with periodontal disease are two times more at risk of developing coronary heart disease. It has also been shown that diabetics with periodontal disease are three times more prone to have heart attacks than those without the disease.

  • Did you know that gum disease is linked to diabetes?

The relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes goes both ways. People who suffer from diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease than those who don’t have it. Periodontal disease deregulates the blood sugar levels for diabetics, which is why it is imperative to treat it in order to eliminate bacterial infection.

  • Did you know that gum disease is linked to pre-term low birth weights?

Pregnant women with periodontal disease are seven times more likely to have a baby that is born prematurely and too small. Since periodontal disease is an infection, it will increase the inflammatory substance in the blood stream which will induce early labor. It’s very common that the condition of periodontal disease gets worse in pregnant women. The American Academy of Periodontology recommends that women considering pregnancy get a periodontal evaluation.

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