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Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a prevalent oral health issue affecting millions worldwide. This condition can lead to various problems, from gum inflammation to tooth loss, impacting overall well-being. Fortunately, advancements in dental science have introduced innovative solutions for managing and preventing progression of periodontal disease, one of which is Periogen. In this article, we will explore the significance of Periogen in maintaining healthy gums and managing periodontal disease.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Conditions

Periodontal disease refers to a range of inflammatory conditions that affect the supporting structures of teeth. It typically manifests in two primary forms:

1. Gingivitis: This is the mildest form of gum disease and is characterized by redness, inflammation, and bleeding of the gums. Gingivitis is often a precursor to more severe forms of gum disease.
2. Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. This condition involves the breakdown of the bone and tissues that support the teeth. It can result in gum recession, tooth mobility, and even tooth loss.

Signs and Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of periodontal disease include:

• Gum bleeding: Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing.
• Swollen or red gums: Inflammation and/or discoloration of the gums.
• Bad breath (Halitosis): Persistent bad breath despite good oral hygiene.
• Gum recession: Gums pulling away from the teeth.
• Tooth sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods/liquids.
• Tooth mobility: Loose teeth due to loss of bone support.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you experience any of the signs and symptoms mentioned above, it is essential to seek professional dental care promptly. Early intervention can prevent the progression of gum disease and more severe complications like tooth loss.

Causes and Risk Factors

The development of gum disease is typically influenced by various factors, including:

1. Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to the accumulation of plaque and tartar, contributing to gum disease.
2. Smoking and Tobacco Use: Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease and can hinder the success of treatment.
3. Genetics: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to gum disease.
4. Health Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of gum disease.
5. Medications: Some medications can affect oral health, contributing to gum problems.
6. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during pregnancy or menopause, can increase susceptibility to gum disease.
7. Stress: High-stress levels can weaken the body's immune system, making it harder to fight off gum infections.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in managing periodontal disease. A dentist or periodontist can diagnose gum disease through a thorough examination. Common treatments may include:

• Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning procedure to remove tartar and bacteria from below the gumline.
• Medications: Antibiotics or antimicrobial mouthwashes to control infection.
• Surgical Procedures: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair damaged tissues and bones and give you best chance for sucess.

Prevention

Preventing periodontal disease is the most effective approach to maintaining healthy gums. Key preventive measures include:

1. Oral Hygiene: Brushing teeth at least twice daily and flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles.
2. Regular Dental Check-Ups: Routine dental visits for professional cleanings and early detection of gum issues.
3. Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in nutrients is essential for gum health.
4. Tobacco Cessation: Significantly reducing gum disease risk is possible by quitting smoking and tobacco use.

Periogen: An Innovative Solution

Periogen is a unique oral health product designed to enhance gum health and prevent the development of periodontal disease. This innovative solution offers an alternative or complementary approach to traditional gum disease prevention and management.

Periogen - An Innovative Approach

Purpose

Periogen is formulated to address a key contributing factor to gum disease: the accumulation of tartar and calculus on tooth surfaces. When you don't remove plaque through proper oral hygiene, it hardens into tartar, and only professional dental cleanings can remove it. If left untreated, tartar can irritate gums and contribute to gum disease.

Periogen primarily aims to reduce tartar formation on teeth, thus preventing gum disease. By effectively breaking down tartar, it helps maintain healthier gums and a more vibrant smile.

Are You a Candidate?

Periogen is a suitable option for individuals looking to enhance their gum health and prevent periodontal disease. Whether you're seeking to improve your current oral care routine or require additional support in preventing tartar buildup, Periogen can be a valuable addition to your dental care.

How to Prepare

Incorporating Periogen into your oral care routine is straightforward. Replace your regular mouthwash with Periogen's oral rinse and follow the instructions. It's a convenient and effective way to promote gum health.

Risk Factors

Periogen is safe to use, and adverse reactions are rare. However, if you have any concerns about potential allergies or sensitivities, consult your dentist or healthcare provider before using Periogen.

Before and After Procedure

After using Periogen as part of your oral hygiene routine, you can expect a reduction in tartar buildup on your teeth. Your gums are likely to appear healthier, with less redness and inflammation. Periogen contributes to preventing the development of periodontal disease, ensuring that your oral health remains in optimal condition.

Conclusion

Periodontal disease is a common oral health issue with potentially severe consequences. Preventing and managing gum disease is paramount in maintaining healthy gums and overall well-being. Periogen offers an innovative solution for individuals seeking to enhance their gum health and reduce the risk of periodontal disease. By addressing tartar buildup, Periogen helps promote healthier gums and a brighter smile. Consider incorporating Periogen into your oral care routine to take proactive steps in preserving your gum health and preventing gum disease. Consult with your dentist to determine if Periogen is the right choice for you.

About Marielaina Perrone, DDS

Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS, is a distinguished dental professional dedicated to enhancing smiles and transforming lives. With over two decades of expertise, she has become a beacon of oral health excellence in the field of dentistry. Dr. Perrone is a proud graduate of Stony Brook University School Of Dental Medicine and has completed advanced training in cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, and orthodontics.

Her unwavering commitment to staying at the forefront of dental advancements ensures that her patients receive the highest quality of care. Dr. Perrone is known for her personalized treatment plans, crafted with a gentle and compassionate approach, tailored to meet each individual's unique needs and preferences.

Outside the dental clinic, Dr. Perrone passionately explores the world, enjoys quality time with her family, and indulges in her love for cooking. Her altruistic nature extends beyond her professional realm, as she generously donates her time and expertise to various charitable organizations in her community.

Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS, is not just a dentist; she is a dedicated smile architect committed to bringing joy, confidence, and lasting oral health to her patients.

Maintaining a healthy weight for your body type is important for a variety of reasons. I'll add one more now: Being overweight may increase your risk of developing periodontal disease, a cluster of dangerous gum infections that, if left untreated, can cause bone loss and other ailments.

According to an analysis of the available data published in the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care in 2020, gum disease, which is often brought on by inflammatory conditions, affects obese people more frequently and shows "a growing trend and a link with various comorbidities." The review comes after ten years of study connecting obesity-related periodontal disease.

Additionally, a 2017 study indicated that people with a body mass index (BMI) of 23 or higher had lower oral health than "normal weight" participants and were 4.2 times more likely to have severe gum disease. The results were published in the journal Oral Diseases. Participants who were overweight also had greater levels of white blood cells and C-reactive protein, two indicators of inflammatory blood conditions. 5.9 times as likely as participants who were of medium weight to have the periodontal disease were obese people with BMIs of 25 or above. A total of 166 participants participated in the study.

Understanding BMI Ranges

It is significant to remember that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States classify a healthy BMI range as 18.5 to 25. Overweight is defined as a BMI of 25 to 30; obesity is defined as a BMI of 30 or above. Then, BMIs of 30 and higher are divided into various categories of obesity severity. The CDC includes an adult BMI calculator for people over 20 years old if you're curious about your BMI.

It's critical to remember that BMI is only a screening tool if your BMI falls into one of the ranges that is deemed harmful. Your healthcare professional can assist you in doing any extra assessments and evaluating your general level of health.

Obesity and Inflammation

Obesity contributes to the body's inflammation, which has long been linked to gum disease. This fact is widely acknowledged by medical professionals.

Numerous diseases, including cardiovascular disease, many malignancies, and periodontal disease, have inflammation as a root cause. There is a logical relationship there as obesity is a risk factor for several of these illnesses. It’s essential to address the problem as soon as possible. Since it’s not easy to treat it by itself, you need to visit a weight loss clinic. 

Over time, there has been more and more proof that being overweight causes inflammation. According to a review study from 2020 that was published in Frontiers of Physiology, obesity-induced adipose tissue enlargement offers a variety of intrinsic signals...capable of starting the inflammatory response.

Periodontal Disease and Inflammation

It has been demonstrated that inflammation brought on by obesity de-regulates the immune system.

An immune-mediated infection, periodontal disease is contagious. So, compared to other people, obese persons are likely to be more vulnerable to the bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease.

Why Periodontal Disease Is Dangerous

It's critical to maintain proper oral hygiene and healthy weight because periodontal disease has been related to a number of illnesses, including a higher risk of stroke and heart disease. According to a study published in Oral Diseases, the interaction between obesity and gum disease may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in overweight or obese people.

In addition to causing tooth loss, periodontal disease has been related to rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, it is always a good idea to prevent risk factors including smoking, bad nutrition, diabetes, and, yes, overeating.

The lesson to be learned from this is that the body is interconnected and that, in many respects, the mouth is a window into one's overall health.

Having a healthy mouth is very important. It benefits your physical and mental health, as well as your smile. Fortunately, it is quite easy to maintain a healthy mouth. All you need to do is to stick to healthy dental hygiene.

Dental care extends beyond our smile. It needs to extend to your gums as well. Gum disease is a serious, progressive, and common dental health issue. Because gum disease tends to be pain-free in the beginning, most people are not even aware they have it. 

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease (also called periodontal disease), is a progressive dental disease caused by plaque and bacteria. The disease of left untreated will destroy your teeth and gums and damage the bones of the jaws.

In its earliest stages (gingivitis), gum disease will present as swollen and reddish gums along with bleeding upon brushing and flossing. Gingivitis is reversible with proper care, the next stage is not. As the disease progresses further, it leads to increased destruction and is called periodontitis..

Periodontitis leads to gum tissue recession, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss.

Gum Disease Prevention Tips

Maintain  A Good Oral Hygiene Regimen

Brush at least two times a day. Try to get in the habit, when possible, to brush after every meal. It is important to brush your tongue as well because it can harbor harmful bacteria. You should choose a soft-bristled brush to gently brush the oral tissues. You should also floss at least once per day to reach areas your toothbrush alone cannot reach.

Use Fluoride

Use a fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth. Fluoride is the most significant toothpaste ingredient. Fluoride helps strengthen the tooth's enamel.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking is extremely harmful to your oral health. Smoking will help the development of periodontalndisease by weakening your immune system. Smoking can also lead to oral cancer.

Avoid Sugary Food And Drink

Avoid sugary foods and drinks. Sugar is the food that allows the harmful bacteria to wreak havoc on your dental health.

Maintain Regular Dental Visits

Regular dental examinations and professional cleanings are vital to the health of your smile. Your dentist can detect any issues before they become an extensive problem and can also monitor how you are maintaining your smile at home

Are You Looking For The Top Las Vegas Cosmetic Dentist?

Dr.  Marielaina Perrone DDS is a highly educated and experienced cosmetic dentist specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry. Her attention to detail and continued training are second to none.

In her Las Vegas practice, Dr. Perrone is a well-known and trusted general and cosmetic dentist practicing cosmetic dentistry for over 20 years. She frequently performs her advanced art of cosmetic dental procedures on patients that have been with her from the start.

Every patient is valued equally, as well as the professional standard of care Dr. Perrone and her cosmetic dentistry team provide is waiting for you at the Top Las Vegas Cosmetic Dentists Office. Contact us for a consultation or browse our website for those critical before and after photos, patient testimonials, and more about the possibilities that await your own stunning, dream smile.

Gum disease, often known as periodontitis, is a dangerous inflammation of the gums. It's brought on by bacteria that have accumulated on your teeth and gums. Your bones and teeth may be harmed as periodontitis advances. The damage can be stopped if periodontitis is treated early and adequate oral hygiene is maintained.

Stages of Periodontitis

Inflammation (gingivitis)

Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is the first sign of periodontitis. When you brush or floss your teeth, your gums may bleed. This is one of the early indicators of gingivitis.

Your teeth may also show signs of discoloration. This is referred to as plaque. Plaque is a bacterial and food debris deposit on your teeth. Bacteria are always present in your mouth, but they only become hazardous when certain conditions allow them to multiply rapidly. If you don't brush, floss, or receive dental cleanings on a regular basis, this could happen.

Early periodontal disease

Your gums recede, or pull away, from your teeth in the early stages of periodontitis, and small pockets form between your gums and teeth. Bacteria can be found in these pockets. As your immune system fights the infection, your gum tissue begins to retreat. Brushing and flossing will almost certainly result in bleeding, as well as possible bone loss.

Moderate periodontal disease

If you let moderate periodontal disease advance, you may feel bleeding, pain, and gum recession around your teeth. Your teeth will begin to loosen and lose bone support. An inflammatory response may occur throughout your body as a result of the infection.

Advanced periodontal disease

The connective tissue that supports your teeth in place begins to disintegrate as the condition progresses. Your gums, bones, and other supporting tissue are all destroyed. You may have significant discomfort while chewing, severe bad breath, and a foul taste in your mouth if you have advanced periodontitis. It's very likely that you'll lose your teeth.

Symptoms of Periodontitis

Symptoms vary depending on the stage of the disease, however, they typically include:

• Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth or floss.
•  Bad breath.
• Changes in the position of your teeth or loose teeth.
• Receding gums.
• Red, tender, or swollen gums.
• Buildup of plaque or tartar on your teeth.
• Pain when chewing.
• Tooth loss.
• Foul taste in your mouth.
• Inflammatory response throughout your body.

In the early stages of periodontitis, the symptoms are generally subtle. Your dentist will almost certainly be the first to notice them.

Periodontitis Diagnosis 

During a routine dental examination, your periodontist will be able to spot early signs of periodontitis. They can keep track of your periodontal health over time to ensure it doesn't deteriorate. This is why it's critical to have your teeth checked by a dentist on a regular basis.

To measure any pockets on your gums, your dentist may use a probe, which is a small ruler. Typically, this exam is painless. If plaque, tartar, or both are found on your teeth during a professional cleaning, your dentist will remove them. They may also take dental X-rays or refer you to a periodontist, who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease.

Periodontitis Treatment 

Oral hygiene practices

Your dental care team will provide you information on how to maintain your teeth and gums clean in order to limit the quantity of bacteria in your mouth. Your dentist will instruct you on how to properly use toothbrushes and dental floss, as well as other oral hygiene items such as a water pick or mouthwash.

Here are some suggestions for keeping your teeth in good shape:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day.
• Consider replacing your toothbrush with an electric toothbrush, which may be more effective.
• Plaque can be removed by flossing at least once a day.
• Visit your dentist for a professional cleaning at least twice a year.
• Avoid Tobacco in any form. 

Professional cleanings

During a professional cleaning, your dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and their roots, polish them, and fluoridate them. To allow for healing, any periodontal pockets that have formed may require extensive cleaning. Scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning technique that scrapes off tartar and removes any rough places on the tooth root where bacteria like to congregate.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics may be prescribed by your dentist in some circumstances to aid with persistent gum infections that haven't responded to cleanings. The antibiotic could come in the form of a mouthwash, gel, tablet, or capsule that you take orally.

Surgery

If irritation develops in areas that are difficult to reach with brushing and flossing, your dentist may offer flap surgery to remove deposits under your gums. Your gums are lifted and the roots of your teeth are cleaned while you are sedated. After that, your gums are sutured (sewn) back in place.

Gum disease is inflammation of the gums that occurs because of an increased number of bacteria in the oral cavity. This condition affects many people all over the world, with approximately 50% of adults experiencing gingivitis during their life. However, there seem to be many misconceptions about gum disease. To help you stay on the safe side, we have gathered these six debunked myths about gum disease that you shouldn't believe in.

1. Gum disease is uncommon

Many people think that gum disease affects only smokers or old people. But as mentioned above, up to 50 percent of adults can develop gum disease throughout their lives. Tsi means that every second person has an increased likelihood of gum disease. You should also know that this condition can affect children as well. This is because kids usually neglect proper oral hygiene and this can result in bacteria overgrowth. 

2. Gum bleeding is normal

One of the most common misconceptions about the gums is that gum bleeding that occurs during tooth brushing or on its own is normal and doesn’t indicate any issues. But the reality is that gum bleeding is considered one of the most common signs of gingivitis (the initial stage of gum disease). You should know that timely and correct gingivitis treatment can help cope with gum disease and prevent the development of severe complications. 

3. Gum disease always causes severe symptoms

Even though inflamed gums are usually bleeding, red, and swollen, initial gum disease can develop asymptomatically for some time. In this case, only a dentist can notice signs of early gum disease. Additionally, some people may have asymptomatic apical periodontitis (AAP). This condition is a bacterial infection of the root canal system that causes persistent inflammation and destruction of the apical periodontium.

4. Gum disease can be left untreated

Some people believe that gum disease is a minor infection and it can be left untreated without any consequences. But the truth is that untreated gum disease can’t disappear on its own but it can cause tooth loss. This is because the infection destroys gums that hold your teeth in place. If you develop advanced gum disease, your teeth may lose their support and fall out. Additionally, you may develop bone loss that can complicate the installation of dental implants. 

5. Gum disease affects only teeth and gums

Indeed, gum disease usually causes obvious signs in the oral cavity. But it doesn’t mean that this condition doesn't affect your overall health. The point is that gum disease promotes the spread of bacteria throughout your body. That’s why people with gum disease are more likely to develop respiratory infections, stroke, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, gum disease increases your risk of diabetes and diabetes also promotes the development of gum disease. 

6. Gum disease always leads to tooth loss

If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, it doesn't always mean that you will lose your teeth soon. As mentioned above, only severe gum disease that wasn’t treated in time can lead to tooth loss. So if you have noticed early signs of gingivitis (gum redness, swelling, bleeding, bad breath, and receding gums), it is better to contact a periodontist as soon as possible. A doctor can recommend the most effective treatment plan to save your teeth and gums. 

The bottom line

It is essential to understand that gum disease is a quite serious infection that affects many people. Timely and proper treatment can help ease its symptoms and prevent the development of severe complications. If you already have gum disease, you should contact a periodontist to define the best treatment options. 

Sometimes, even if you follow thorough dental hygiene, you still may be at risk of developing gum disease, a severe gum infection that can potentially damage your jawbone if untreated. If gum disease persists for a long time, it can develop into a more serious periodontal disease. Learning more about its different culprits can help you prevent the onset of this condition and start immediate treatment when necessary. 

Keep on reading to discover some of the causes of gum disease that go beyond dental hygiene. 

1. Genetics
Gum disease can be hereditary. You can be more vulnerable to this mouth bacterial infection due to your family health history. If you suspect you’re genetically predisposed, meticulous dental hygiene should be your main priority. 

2. Aggressive bacteria
Many people get virulent bacteria that are more harmful to their gum lines and jawbones that support their teeth. Such bacteria can result in bleeding gums, jawbone deterioration, and shifting teeth, without you even experiencing a characteristic pain. If you have this kind of gum disease, consult a periodontist ASAP because hygiene alone is inefficient. 

3. Medications
A wide range of medications can trigger swelling or bleeding in your gums. Certain medications can decrease the amount of saliva in your mouth, allowing bacteria to spread quicker. If you’re using liquid medicines, antacids, and cough drops that are laced with sugar, practicing good dental hygiene is even more important.   

4. Smoking
When it comes to your dental health, it’s not just cigarettes that are a problem. Any type of tobacco product, including electronic cigarettes, chewing tobacco, vape, and snus, can increase your risk of developing gum disease by 20% to 30%. Tobacco use hampers the natural tissue healing process in your mouth and makes it more susceptible to bacteria. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, periodontitis (advanced gum disease) is more common in men (57%) than in women (39%) and even more so in those who smoke (65%). 

5. Pregnancy and hormone fluctuations
Expectant mothers and women on their periods should follow thorough dental hygiene. That’s because hormonal changes that occur during these processes can make your gum line more susceptible to oral bacteria. Persistent gum disease in pregnant women can lead to complications like preterm birth and low birth weight. 

6. Malnutrition
If your gums are pouring blood, it can be a sign of gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. However, bleeding gums can also signal nutritional deficiencies. For example, low levels of vitamin C in the bloodstream are linked to increased gum leading, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Try eating more healthy foods like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and peppers to resolve this problem. Unhealthy eating, in general, can impact your body’s immune system. 

7. Age
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 64 million middle-aged Americans are affected by some form of gum disease. Your risk for gum disease and other health problems becomes higher as you age. The risk for periodontitis, the most severe stage of gum disease, increases to nearly 80% in people over 65, reports the American Academy of Periodontology.

8. Overall health issues
Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis are the three major systemic diseases that can lead to inflammation and worsen the condition of your gums. According to various studies conducted over the last 30 years, gum disease is commonly linked to an increase in those types of diseases. That’s because mouth bacteria can spread to other parts of your body through small wounds and openings in your gums and other oral tissues. 

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is an infection of the gum tissues in your mouth. The primary cause of periodontal disease is poor dental hygiene that causes the buildup of a hard, sticky film of bacteria on the teeth called plaque. In advanced stages, this can lead to painful chewing problems, bleeding gums, and even tooth loss.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an inflammatory condition of the gum and periodontal tissue surrounding the teeth. The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, which means inflammation of gums. 

Other than poor dental hygiene and tartar buildup, factors such as tobacco use, certain medications, clenching or grinding of your teeth, and genetics can also play an important role in developing gum disease.

Types of Gum Disease

There are mainly two stages or types of gum disease. 

Gingivitis - The initial stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, and it often goes undetected. If diagnosed at this stage, the condition is usually reversible.

Periodontitis - When gingivitis is left untreated, it leads to the next stage of gum disease called periodontitis. In this stage, the patient experiences chronic gum inflammation and loss of bone and tissue in the infected area of the mouth, ultimately leading to tooth loss.

Causes of Gum Disease

The primary cause of gum disease is plaque and tartar, which is formed when bacteria in our mouth react with mucus and food debris. Plaque is sticky, and when not removed by regular brushing and flossing, they can harden and form tartar on the teeth. Tartar cannot be cleaned by brushing, and you will have to visit a professional dental hygienist to remove it. 

Risk factors for gum disease include:

• Smoking
• Hormonal changes in women
• Diabetes
• Certain illnesses like AIDS and their medications 
• Genetics
• The use of medicines that restrict the flow of saliva in our mouth 
• Cavities that irritate your gums 

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Some of the main symptoms of gum disease are:

• Persistent bad breath 
• Red, swollen, and receding gums
• Bleeding of gums
• Loose teeth
• Painful chewing
• Teeth sensitivity

Treatment and Prevention of Gum Disease

The treatment for periodontal disease largely depends on the type of disease. Some of the treatment options are:

• Plaque and calculus removal by your dental hygienist.
• Frequent cleanings and use of prescribed medications like chlorhexidine gluconate mouth rinse help kill bacteria in your mouth.
• In some cases, surgery may be required to stop the progression of gum disease. If the disease has progressed to an advanced stage, surgery will help to replace the bone that was lost due to the disease.

The best way to prevent gum disease and tooth decay is to practice proper brushing and flossing regularly. It is also essential to visit your dentist for plaque and calculus removal and to maintain good oral health. If you are concerned about your gum health, call our dentist in Des Moines today and schedule an appointment with us.