Periodontics (Gum Therapy)

Berks County, Reading and Wyomissing, Pennsylvania

Periodontics is the study of the supporting structures of the teeth and the conditions and diseases that can affect them. Supporting structures include the gums (gingival), cementum, periodontal ligament and the alveolar (jaw) bone. All of these make up the periodontium. At Dr. Schwartz's Family and Cosmetic Dentistry practice in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania, he and his Team focus not only on dental hygiene, repairing and restoring teeth, but also on the structural health and preventive measures required to protect your mouth from periodontal disease.

What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease has many faces. It is usually caused by an accumulation of bacterial plaque around the teeth and gums. This causes inflammation and problems with susceptibility to infection. The result, if left untreated, is gum disease, tooth loss and eventual bone loss in the jaw. Periodontal disease continues to be the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease (periodontitis) is a progressive disease. As the disease progresses, bones and gums may begin receding. The tooth roots may become exposed which can cause more pronounced tooth sensitivity. The guest may also experience the production of pus in the pockets that form between the teeth and gums. Some common symptoms to look for include:

Bleeding gums while brushing or any other time
Swollen gums
Inflamed gums
Sensitive gums
Loose teeth
Teeth that seem to have shifted
Bad breath

Causes of Gum Disease
The causes of gum disease can all be monitored and controlled, as well as corrected if caught early enough. The most common causes of gum disease include:

Improper dental hygiene
Organic changes in the mouth (metabolism or hormones)
Lack of saliva flow due to certain medications or ailments
Poor oral habits such as grinding, clenching

The proper care of your teeth and gums is the responsibility of both you and your dental team. Your teeth, gums and the supporting bone structures come in short supply. You only get one natural set to work with. A lifetime of good oral care begins at an early age when you learn basic care for your teeth.

Effects of Gum Disease on Your General Health
Studies have shown that gum disease is not just a problem for your oral health-it can affect your overall health. The risks of gum disease include not just tooth loss, but cardiovascular disease, stroke, and premature birth.

Gum disease has long been correlated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. And research has shown that long-standing infections, such as gingivitis, can cause blood platelets to clot in the veins, which can lead to heart attack and stroke. In addition, gum disease has been correlated with low birth weight and premature birth in studies.

A Routine of Care
Dr. Schwartz tracks your dental care and health through regular examinations that should begin as early as age two and continue throughout your life. You must continue good dental hygiene habits as a lifelong process that really should be almost second nature after the first few years of life.

Thankfully, for those who were never really taught proper dental hygiene at an early age, it is never too late to learn and to care for and repair damages to your teeth. To learn about good dental practices and about dental procedures that may help you, please contact Dr. David A. Schwartz at his Wyomissing, Pennsylvania dental practice today.

Phone: 610.670.6910