The Lowdown on Gum Disease
Dentistry has surely shifted its focus from cavity control, thanks to fluoride and early dental care. Now we are learning more about periodontal disease, and for good reason. These days, tooth loss is the likely result of gum disease.
Q. I used to come in twice a year for cleanings. Now the dental hygienist says I need more attention, more often. My insurer limits coverage to six-month visits. What's up?
A. First, we know more about diagnosing the disease and have come upon some very dangerous systemic relationships to other conditions. That is, if you have heart problems, diabetes, or you're expecting a baby, we'll have to watch you closer than the next patient. Ongoing treatment for advanced mouth disease (periodontitis), too, should be scheduled more often.
Q. OK. What will periodontal treatment cost? I want to keep all the teeth I have.
A. You'll have to contact your periodontist's office for specific pricing but to treat a light case of gingivitis - the very first stages of disease - is the least expensive. Deep pockets around teeth and apparent bone loss - a complex case - will cost more. Periodontitis that requires surgery, and maybe the services of a specialist, costs much, much more. A good argument for early gum disease treatment and prevention.
Q. When you're done with me, am I cured?
A. Periodontal and gum disease prevention is the best defense because nobody walks away from it. Unfortunately, periodontal disease is incurable. But with your help, we can keep it under control. So much of your tissue health depends on how much work you're willing to put in. There's nothing magical about brushing and flossing. You just have to do it.
+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.
Gum Disease and Preterm, Low Birth Weight Babies
Is there a link between maternal periodontal disease and premature, low birth-weight babies?
The Journal of Periontology published a special supplement in October 1996 to introduce an important study, "Periodontal Infection as a Risk Factor for Preterm Low Birth Weight." This study establishes just such an association.
Periodontal disease is a chronic infection of the oral cavity that can worsen without treatment, especially during pregnancy. This study is one of the first of its kind to suggest maternal periodontal disease as a possible risk factor for premature, low birth-weight babies, according to The American Academy of Periontology.
In order to substantiate these results, more studies are needed. We'd also benefit from determining whether intercepting maternal periodontal disease will reduce the risk of premature delivery.
Until we learn the results, the American Academy of Periontology urges that any periodontal infection during pregnancy should be treated seriously. If a woman has been diagnosed with periodontal disease, she and her obstetrician - with consultation from a periodontist - should follow the best plan of treatment.
+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.