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Archive for the ‘Periodontics’ Category
by Mark N. Jacobson, DDS
Any serious medical complications in pregnancy can increase risks to both the mother and fetus. Periodontitis (gum disease) is an infectious condition that affects 23% of women between the ages of 30-54. It can, and should, be treated by a professional before the start of pregnancy or, if necessary, very soon after.
Untreated periodontal disease may increase the risk of unfavorable pregnancy outcomes including preterm deliveries, while also contributing to medical problems that can affect the health of a newborn child after delivery.
A recent joint research study conducted by the University of North Carolina and the University of Alabama documented the link between pregnant mothers with periodontal disease and preterm deliveries. The study concluded that “women with periodontal disease were seven times more likely to deliver low-birth weight babies prematurely.”
Preterm and low-birth weight infants tend to be more susceptible than normal deliveries to impaired lung function and development. They also have a higher risk of developing neurodevelopment problems such as cerebral palsy, blindness, deafness, respiratory problems, behavioral problems, learning problems, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity.
Why does the link between gum disease and preterm deliveries exist? Scientists believe that periodontitis acts as a source of bacteria and inflammatory factors that induce pregnancy complications via the blood. The gums shed bacteria that enters the bloodstream, triggering systematic (whole body) inflammatory responses during pregnancy. Microbiological studies have shown when a fetus is exposed to the mother’s oral bacteria and an inflammatory response occurs, and the risk of preterm delivery rises to about 60%. Also, scientists believe that infectious germs are often passed from mother to child after the birth.
The effective treatment of periodontitis by a qualified dentist focuses on removing bacterial deposits that form in pockets above and below the gumline. The dentist will scale and root plane the gums to help them heal and prevent additional bacterial deposits. In some cases, curettage is done to remove soft tissues within the pockets, making it harder for more bacteria to form.
According to three studies, professional treatment of periodontal disease in infected mothers resulted in a 28% reduction in preterm or low-birth weight deliveries.
And what about “expectant fathers” with gum disease? While clearly there is no danger during pregnancy, it is a good idea for infected fathers to receive treatment before the baby is born, so that there is less risk of germs being passed to the newborn through ordinary handling and contact by either parent.
Why are More and More People Over The Age Of 30 Going to a Periodontist at Least Once a Year?
By Mark N. Jacobson, DDS
Because your periodontist can detect and treat certain gum diseases for which your dentist is not trained. Periodontists are dentists who have extensive training in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of periodontal disease. They pursue a minimum of two years of specialty training in addition to dental school.
Many people go to a periodontist or are referred to one by their dentist when they notice any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent bad breath;
- Teeth that are spreading or loose;
- Bleeding or tender gums; or
- Pus between the teeth and the gums.
However, you may have gum disease and not have any of these signs. Most people do not experience any pain due to gum disease and then it goes unnoticed. That is why annual periodontal examinations are a good practice.
What is Gum Disease?
Periodontal disease (or gum disease) is the major cause of adult tooth loss, affecting three out of four persons at some time in their life. The main culprit of gum disease is plaque, a colorless, sticky substance that constantly forms on your teeth. If plaque is not removed, toxins destroy the tissue around your tooth, forming “pockets” that attract more plaque. Unless treated, you could eventually lose your teeth.
How is Gum Disease Diagnosed?
With regular visits, your periodontist can detect developing gum disease early, before your gums and the bone around your teeth are irreversibly damaged. A small measuring instrument is gently inserted between the tooth and the gum to measure the depth of your pockets. The depth of the pockets determines the extent of the tooth support damage.
Based on this examination, along with a set of X-rays, your periodontist will discuss a personalized treatment program for your condition.
How is Gum Disease Treated?
In the early stages of gum disease all that may be needed is a scaling and root planning. This simply involves removing plaque and tartar in the pockets around the tooth and smoothing the root surfaces.
However, maybe your case has progressed and surgical treatment is required. With modern techniques and medication, you should feel no discomfort during these procedures.
After surgery, the affected area may be tender or sore. Your periodontist will make sure you have medication to relieve this discomfort. Many patients go back to their normal routine in only a few hours!
Will Gum Disease Return?
While you probably will not need major work in the same area, periodontal diseases are chronic and require constant, careful attention. Periodontal treatment helps control disease and prevents further destruction to the gums and bone, allowing you to keep your teeth.
With an annual visit to your periodontist, and daily brushing and flossing, you can keep gum diseases from becoming more serious or recurring. You don’t have to lose your teeth to periodontal disease.
