3 Questions to Ask Your Ft. Lauderdale Periodontist

When you’re first visiting a periodontist (or even before you schedule a visit) you may have questions about what a periodontist does and what he or she treats. Here are some common questions we’re asked from our patients in the Ft. Lauderdale office.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease (often called gum disease) is an continual infection or inflammation in the gums around your teeth. The cause periodontal disease is bacteria which builds up over time and gets into your gums. This infection starts destroying the bone which supports your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other issues.

What Happens if I Delay Treatment?

When your gums and bone are damaged by periodontal inflammation or infection, there is less support for your teeth – and that is a big problem!

As this “support” disappears and pockets (or holes in the gums) form around the teeth, plaque and debris will collect, often causing bad breath, red, swollen and bleeding gums. Without treatment from a dentist or periodontist, the teeth will become loose and then can be lost due to unrestorable damage – that’s not what you want of course!

The lost teeth will have to be replaced with dental implants, bridges or dentures. When treatment is recommended by a dentist or periodontist, it is important to get started as soon as possible.

What About Longterm Medical Consequences?

When periodontal disease causes breakdown of the gums, bacteria can then be released into the bloodstream. From there it travels to other parts of the body and can contribute to medical problems.

There has been a lot of research done recently related to periodontal disease and its affects. In fact, patients with periodontal disease are more likely to have medical problems including:
•    Heart disease & heart attack – 2.7 times higher risk.
•    Stroke – 3 times higher risk.
•    Pre-term childbirth – 7-8 times more likely to have premature baby.
•    Diabetes – causes a raise in blood sugar & when treated reduces need for insulin.
•    Respiratory disease – can lead to pneumonia, bronchitis and emphysema.
•    Your Bacteria can be transmitted – from parent to child or spouse to spouse.

 Some risk factors include:
•    Chronic Stress
•    Smoker
•    Being sedentary and overweight
•    Frequent colds, flu, etc.

Need to speak with a Ft. Lauderdale area periodontist today?

If you have questions for a periodontist – what we do, how we can help your smile – please contact our offices. We’d be happy to talk more with you!

Deerfield Beach office: (954) 427-5700