Periodontal or Gum Disease

If you are over fifty, you may recognize the term “pyorrhea.”  (And no, it is NOT an intestinal disorder!)  If you are older yet, you may be familiar with the condition known as “Trenchmouth.”  Both of these rather archaic labels refer to a very common health problem in our society:  periodontal or gum disease. 

Trenchmouth actually refers to gum disease that affected World War I troops as they were trapped in Europe in the trenches of the front lines.  Gum diseases are among the most common pathological conditions to affect human populations with approximately fifty percent of the population of the US having some type of gum disease at any given time.  There are many forms of periodontal disease, but the one that is most destructive is called Chronic Periodontitis.

Basically, periodontitis is caused by plaque and the response stimulated in the tissues by the bacteria in plaque.  With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line.  Poisons produced by the bacteria in plaque set up an inflammatory response in which the body in essence turns on itself.  The tissues and bone supporting the teeth are slowly destroyed.  Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets or spaces between the teeth and gums, and bone is lost causing looseness of the teeth and leading to their ultimate loss.

Some symptoms of gum disease are a bad taste in the mouth, bad breath, and bleeding of the gums.  More obvious signs of advanced disease process are exudate, or pus, around the gums, and loosening of the teeth.

Periodontal disease has many associated risk factors.  A Journal of Periodontology study shows smoking as the number one related lifestyle factor.  Fifty-seven percent of studies have found a strong relationship between periodontal diseases and psychological factors such as stress, distress, anxiety, and depression according to the American Academy of Periodontology.  Other risk factors include family history, diabetes, poor nutrition, and chronic dry mouth.
Recently research has indicated periodontal disease is directly associated with many systemic conditions including heart disease.

The diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease is the responsibility of the dental professional team.  If you suspect you may have a periodontal or gum problem, see your dentist.  Along with the dental hygienist, he or she can suggest a treatment regimen specific to your individual needs.

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