Serious or Not? Periodontal Disease in Florida

Periodontal disease. Is it serious? The answer is…it depends.

With the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting that half of all Americans ages 30 and above have some form of periodontal disease, that sounds pretty scary.

What’s also scary is that number is higher for minorities and lower income patients who are less able to take care of their teeth properly, either because they’re less educated about oral health or have less access to treatment options and health insurance coverages.

Early stage periodontal disease, called gingivitis, is a reaction to the presence of harmful bacteria in the mouth. Your symptoms will be reddened, swollen and inflamed gums – you may have some pain and discomfort…or you may not really notice.

It’s the not noticing that can get you into trouble as, without real pain, you may not have reason to see a dentist or periodontist. And if you’re not visiting your local dentist for regular checkups, they won’t be able to determine you have a growing problem.

Caught early, gingivitis can be managed and corrected, protecting you and your gums and teeth from further damage.

What is potentially scary is when gingivitis becomes periodontitis. That’s the advanced form of periodontal disease where pockets begin to form around the teeth as the gums are literally pulling away from the teeth. As your gum tissue is being destroyed by bacteria, you’re at risk for bone loss, loosening teeth…or teeth that have lost their support structure and will fall out or need to be pulled or replaced.

So, yes…left untreated, periodontal disease can become scary and lead to expensive and potential painful surgery with long term implications to your oral health, and yes, even your overall health as it’s been shown that periodontal issues are related to other health issues like increased risk of heart disease.

Speak with a Ft. Lauderdale, Florida Periodontist Today About Your Health Concerns

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