How Fort Lauderdale Patients Can Better Understand Gum Disease

We find that many of our new patients don’t really have an understanding of what Gum Disease is, why its progression can be quite harmful and how they can find treatment.

The following questions are basic questions we’re asked by patients (or are topics of information that we know our patients will find helpful).

For more helpful information, please call our office to speak with a doctor. Or, for researching topics online, visit the website of the American Academy of Periodontology at Perio.org.

What causes advanced gum disease (periodontal disease)?

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection. Bacteria initially accumulate along the gum line in the form of hard, white plaque.

The body’s immune system then sends white blood cells to fight the bacteria, but this response actually encourages the gum tissue to break down in order to make room for the blood vessels.

As a result, “pockets” form between the gums and the tooth’s hard surfaces, providing ideal conditions for more bacterial growth. Eventually, the interaction of bacteria with the body’s immune system can result in destruction of bone that supports each tooth.

What kind of bacteria cause destruction?

There are many normal types of bacteria in our mouths and most of them won’t cause any problems for us. However, researchers have identified specific bacteria that are sound in periodontal disease.

When these types of bacteria are present, we know the patient is at increased risk for periodontal disease. When the bacteria appear in large numbers, they may signal an acute phase of the disease.

How can I tell if I have these bacteria?

Previously, the only way we could tell was by seeing the destruction caused by bacteria – the deep pockets, the loss of bone, etc. Now we don’t have to wait until after the damage is done.

Using a special microscope and/or culturing, we can tell if you are harboring the bacteria associated with periodontal disease. For patients who have already been treated for periodontal disease, this evidence can alert us to the possibility that the disease is re-entering an active phase.

Learn more about how we can help you with your smile!

If you have questions for a periodontist – please contact our offices. We’d be happy to talk more with you!

Deerfield Beach office: (954) 427-5700