Baltimore Periodontal Disease

Dr. Dawn Merguerian is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Periodontal Disease.


Q. What Causes Tooth Loss?

A. Tooth loss can be due to injury or trauma to the mouth. However, diseases such as tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease are the main cause of tooth loss. Children are especially susceptible to sports-related trauma, so we recommend they wear a protective mouth guard when playing sports.

Q.  What Causes Periodontal Diseases and How Does Plaque Attack the Gums?

A. Periodontal disease is caused by chronic infection and inflammation of the gums, the surrounding bone, and tissue. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
There are multiple factors contributing to periodontal disease. The main one is bacterial plaque- a sticky, colorless film. The bacteria in this plaque releases toxins which irritate the gums and break down the fibers that hold the gums to the teeth, creating periodontal pockets. The bacteria and plaque then fill those pockets and move down the tooth until the gum and bone holding the tooth in are destroyed. If the disease is untreated, the teeth can become loose and may require extraction. In our office we use a microscope to detect these bacteria so we can better regulate and control the disease process.
Other factors can affect periodontal disease as well. The immune system, genetics, smoking, emotional stress, and pregnancy can all play a part. More and more evidence leads us to believe that there is a key link between periodontal disease and systemic diseases too such as heart disease, diabetes, and possibly more. The best way to ensure good periodontal health and therefore all-over health is through professional dental hygiene care and following the education provided for proper home care.

Q. Can Periodontal Diseases Be Prevented and How Do You Stop Plaque Attacks?

A. Removing plaque daily with thorough care and keeping bacteria levels under control will help reduce inflammation and periodontal pockets. Our hygienists provide customized home care instructions for each patient based on their personal needs. For those patients prone to periodontal disease, our hygienists will recommend oral irrigation with a dental water jet to reduce the effects of periodontal disease.

Q. How many times a day should I brush my teeth?

A. Generally speaking, it’s best to brush your teeth twice a day for at least 2 minutes. You want to brush in an elliptical motion focusing on the gum line and only covering a few teeth at a time. You should follow this procedure along the cheek-side, the biting surface, and the tongue-side of all your teeth. The best toothbrush is a soft-bristle brush with a small compact head that will be able to access the hard-to-reach areas in the back of the mouth. Hard bristles should only be used on dentures!

Q. What kind of toothpaste should I use?

A. In this day and age with so much commercialism, purchasing toothpastes can be very confusing. In most cases, a toothpaste approved by the ADA (American Dental Association) is appropriate. However, the questions we always hear are what ingredients are best for each individual. Today most toothpastes emphasize whitening ingredients. But for those with a lot of extensive dentistry, the abrasives in whitening toothpastes can be damaging. For reducing tooth decay, fluoride toothpastes which strengthen the enamel are helpful. There are also toothpastes to help reduce teeth sensitivity. These pastes contain strontium chloride or potassium nitrate, which block off small tubes in the teeth that lead to the nerves. For periodontal care, bacteria reducing pastes with baking soda are preferrable. For people that prefer toothpastes without artificial sweeteners and additives, there are natural toothpastes available as well.

Q. How to contact Dr. Merguerian if we have further questions?    

A.
Address:
3900 N Charles St #112,
Baltimore, MD 21218
Phone:410-235-1233
Email:brangrrl2@yahoo.com
Website:http://smiledds.dentistryonline.com/