Gum Disease, Gingivitis, Periodontal Disease, Have Broader Health Risks Requiring
Regular Oral Health Care / Preventative Dental Care.
Dental deposits or calculus are a calcified form of plaque and are composed primarily of calcium phosphate, mineral salt deposits and microorganisms creating a mineralized layer attached directly to your teeth. Plaque covers this mineralized calculus and is heavily populated with a variety of microorganisms. The calculus formations may be found above and below the gums.
Dental calculus varies in location, consistency, and is destructive to teeth, gums, and surrounding bone due to the bacteria associated with it. This process known as periodontal disease (periodontitis or gum disease) has far reaching consequences to the patient. The patient is at risk due to the active disease process and also due to the multiple systemic health risk factors that have more recently been associated with gum disease.
Periodontitis, also referred to as pyorrhea, is a complex disease which can have active acute periods of gingival (gum) infections leading to in-flamed, swollen, bleeding and often painful gums. During the active acute phase the gums may even show signs of exudate, or puss drainage, around the teeth in more severe cases.
Periodontitis may also be a chronic disease involving the gums with active periods of flare-ups. During the active phase of the disease, inflammation of the gum tissue results in destruction of adjacent bone that holds the teeth in the jaw. The inflammatory process of the gum and bone is the most common cause of tooth loss for most adults.
Today it is significant to point out that periodontal disease has associated risks for several other health conditions including heart disease, strokes, diabetes and hormonal imbalances. Patient’s should be aware that most cardiologists recognize this association and the need for regular and preventative dental health programs.
Should you wish more information regarding this article, or wish to arrange a dental evaluation, please call our office. We would be happy to assist you. source
