Dental
Dispelling Myths About Gum Disease: The Truth Behind Healthy Teeth and Gums
By
Feb 18, 2010 - 3:53:23 PM

(HealthNewsDigest.com) - CHICAGO, -- The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) estimates that approximately three out of four Americans suffer from some form of gum disease -- from mild cases of gingivitis, to the more severe form known as periodontitis. However, despite this prevalence, approximately only three percent seek treatment for their gum disease. With increasingly more research indicating that gum disease may be linked to several other diseases, including diabetes, heart disease and certain forms of cancer, maintaining healthy teeth and gums has become more important that ever.

According to Samuel Low, DDS, MS, Associate Dean and professor of periodontology at the University of Florida College of Dentistry, and President of the American Academy of Periodontology, the discrepancy between the prevalence of gum disease and the lack of treatment can likely be blamed on a lack of understanding of the effect periodontal disease can have on overall health. "Patients do not always seek the periodontal care they require because they are not aware of the long-term and potentially dangerous implications of untreated gum disease," says Dr. Low. "Unfortunately, there are a variety of myths surrounding periodontal disease and its repercussions."

In order to help distinguish between fact and fallacy regarding periodontal disease, the AAP has identified and addressed below some common misconceptions about oral health.

1. Bleeding gums are not that big of a deal. Red, swollen and bleeding
gums are an important sign of periodontal disease. If you notice
bleeding while brushing or flossing, or when eating certain foods, you
should schedule a visit with your dental professional to be evaluated
for periodontal disease. Studies have shown that in addition to tooth
loss, gum disease may contribute to the progression of other diseases,
including heart disease and diabetes, so it is important that you begin
treating periodontal disease as soon as possible.
2. You don't need to floss every day. Routine oral care, which includes
brushing after every meal and before bedtime, and flossing at least
once a day, is the best way to prevent gum disease. However, a recent
survey estimates that only 13.5 percent of Americans floss each day. It
is vital that you keep up with your daily oral care, and see a dental
professional for a thorough check-up twice a year. If gum disease is
diagnosed, a consultation with a periodontist, a dentist who
specializes in treating periodontal disease, may be beneficial.
3. A visit to the periodontist will be scary. Periodontists are gum
disease experts. They have received three or more years of specialized
training following dental school centered on the diagnosis, treatment
and prevention of periodontal disease. Periodontists are equipped with
the latest treatments and technologies, using innovative tools such as
digital radiography, ultrasound technology, biomarker measurement and
laser therapy to help make your visit more comfortable.
4. A tooth lost to gum disease is a tooth lost forever. Gum disease is a
major cause of tooth loss in adults. However, in addition to treating
gum disease, periodontists are also experts in placing dental implants
-- a convenient and comfortable way to permanently replace missing
teeth. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into
the jaw to hold a replacement tooth. Studies have shown that dental
implants have a 98 percent success rate, and with proper care, allow
you to speak, eat and smile with confidence. In fact, a survey
conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology found that over 70
percent of respondents reported being "pleased" or "extremely
satisfied" with the results of their dental implants.
5. Poor oral hygiene is the only way to develop gum disease. Forgoing
good oral hygiene can certainly contribute to the progression of gum
disease, but there are a variety of other factors that can also impact
your risk. For instance, tobacco use has been shown to greatly increase
your chance of developing gum disease. Stress, poor diet, and even
genetics, can also play a role in the health of your gums. To determine
your risk of developing gum disease, the AAP offers a free online risk
assessment test.


To learn more about periodontal disease, visit perio.org.

About the American Academy of Periodontology

Subscribe to our FREE Ezine and be eligible for Health News, discounted products/services and coupons related to your Health. We publish 24/7.
HealthNewsDigest.com
We videotape Press Conferences, produce Satellite MediaTour's, B-rolls, PSA's, - all with distribution: HealthyTelevisionProductionstvmike13@healthnewsdigest.com

© Copyright by HealthNewsDigest.com