Treating Medical Conditions Linked to Gum Disease at Our Houston, TX, Office
Unfortunately, gum disease is a widespread problem in the United States. However, you should never make the mistake of putting off treatment under the assumption that it is confined to your gums. In fact, numerous medical conditions have been linked to gum disease. As the foremost periodontics experts in Houston, Texas, Dr. Friedberg & Associates can help you understand the risks of gum disease—and, of course, we can also provide top-caliber periodontal treatments to address it.periodontal treatments to address
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums that causes the tissues around the teeth to recede and can lead to tooth loss and other serious dental issues. There are four stages of gum disease: gingivitis, mild periodontitis, moderate periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. This condition progresses in the following stages:
- Gingivitis – The first stage of gum disease, which results from plaque buildup. Gingivitis causes mild inflammation of the gums, tenderness, bleeding, and bad breath.
- Mild periodontitis – If gingivitis isn’t addressed, the gums begin to recede, and plaque, bacteria, and food particles become trapped in the pockets. This affects the bones that hold the teeth in place.
- Moderate periodontitis – If mild periodontitis isn’t treated, the infection worsens, and you lose more of the bone supporting your teeth.
- Advanced periodontitis – Bone loss continues, and teeth start shifting in the mouth. At this stage, teeth may fall out, and the infection can cause or impact medical conditions affecting other parts of the body.
Fortunately, it is possible to reverse gingivitis (inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup). But once the disease affects the bone and tissues that hold your teeth in place and causes irreversible damage, it becomes periodontal disease. At this point, immediate treatment is needed to manage the condition and prevent the development of advanced periodontitis.
Gingivitis Treatment & Periodontal Therapies
Regular dental cleanings and diligent at-home oral health care can reverse gingivitis and stop the progression of gum disease. In cases of periodontitis, your dentist may recommend deep cleanings, which remove bacteria below the gumline, scaling and root planing, and prescription mouthwash to address the infection. Advanced cases may require additional therapies, such as gum grafting, laser treatment, or other surgeries.
Medical Conditions With Links to Periodontal Disease
We have definitive proof that certain medical conditions, such as gum recession and tooth and bone loss, are caused by gum disease. Research has found links between periodontal disease and a number of other conditions, such as:
- Heart disease – The British Society of Periodontology found that periodontitis positively correlates with coronary heart disease.
- Ischemic stroke – Gum disease and inflammation can alter blood flow to the brain, which may increase the risk of stroke.
- Respiratory disease – The International Society of Preventive and Community Dentistry found a strong association between periodontitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
- Cancer of the head and neck – Numerous studies indicate that periodontal disease is an independent risk factor for head and neck cancer.
- Kidney disease – Inflammation and bacteria from periodontal disease may be a risk factor for kidney disease.
- Diabetes – Periodontal disease and diabetes are frequently comorbid.
Additionally, pregnant women with gum disease may face an increased risk of pre-term delivery. Research from the Society of Science, Biology, and Medicine suggests that bacteria associated with the disease can get into the bloodstream and target the fetus, potentially leading to low-birth-weight babies and premature labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our periodontal experts answer some common questions regarding gum disease below.
Can Gum Disease Be Reversed?
Thankfully, you can prevent the progression of gum disease as long as it is caught in the early stage (gingivitis). Regular dental cleanings and diligent at-home care can help you avoid serious dental complications and medical conditions associated with periodontal disease.
What Treatments Do You Offer?
Our office provides a comprehensive suite of periodontal disease treatments, including:
- Pinhole Surgical Technique™
- Laser treatments
- Gum grafting
- Deep cleanings
- Crown lengthening
We use top-of-the-line technology and cutting-edge therapies to deliver the best periodontal care and preserve your health.
Begin Your Gum Disease Treatment
With so many severe medical conditions linked to gum disease, it’s essential to get on a rock-solid treatment plan as early as possible. Contact Dr. Friedberg & Associates today to schedule an appointment at our Houston, TX, office. We proudly serve numerous surrounding communities.
