Gum disease, rather than tooth decay, is the number one reason for tooth loss. Gum disease can go completely unnoticed up to the point of losing your teeth. Common symptoms are gums that bleed from brushing or flossing, and teeth that have become loose. If the infection is treated in the milder stages, it can be reversed with nonsurgical methods. Once it is advanced, surgery will be necessary.
Gum
Disease Can Contribute to Heart Disease and
Even StrokeMany patients think that gum disease is no big deal, as it is not something you die from. But recent medical research has revealed that gum disease is linked to potentially fatal conditions like diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. Gum infection is now considered a more serious problem than just losing your teeth. The bacterial infection in the gums travels throughout the bloodstream, affecting vital organs. The American Academy of Periodontology reports, “studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases.”
The American Dental Association has estimated that a staggering 80% of Americans have gum infection at various stages. At such a high percentage, most dentists consider this an epidemic – and now it has been proven that infected gums may add to potentially life-threatening conditions.
Now the Good NewsPeriodontal disease can be reversed with nonsurgical methods and improved dental hygiene, if treated before it reaches an advanced level. It is important to take care of this infection at the first signs, because if you wait too long, surgery may be the only option. Both procedures are generally covered by most dental insurance.
What’s So Bad about Losing a Tooth?
Losing even one tooth can cause other teeth to start to shift or loosen. This is not good, as it affects your ability to chew and obtain nutrients from your food. Missing teeth will change your appearance and make you look older than you are. Your speech may not be as clear as with a full set of teeth. And if it is difficult to chew, your food choices may change to soft foods of higher calories that result in weight gain.
We offer dental implants that replace as many teeth as are missing. They function and look just like real teeth, and no one will ever know they are not your natural teeth.
Stutler Dental
Brad Stutler, DDS
1460 North Green Street, Suite 300
Brownsburg, IN 46112
(317) 225-4520
Website: StutlerDental.com
The easy process starts with a reflective powder that is
applied to the tooth. With a special camera, a very
accurate picture is taken and displayed on our computer
screen. We then design the restoration and CEREC creates
the crown. We insert and bond the restoration to the
tooth. Like our other patients, you will love how easy
this is!