The main cause of periodontal disease is bacteria. Although everyone has bacteria in their mouths, we all have different types of bacteria and our bodies have different abilities to protect ourselves from these bacteria. Consequently, there are different ways to protect ourselves against periodontal disease; decreasing the amount of bacteria in our mouths and increasing our resistance to the bacteria.
Decreasing the amount of bacteria in our mouths: This is referred to as "plaque control." Plaque is a sticky, gooey white substance that is difficult to see in our mouths. Plaque is composed primarily of bacteria, with skin cells, dead white blood cells (i.e., pus) and food debris. When plaque is allowed to stick to the teeth, our bodies begin a process, called inflammation, to rid itself of these irritants. When the inflammation has been present long enough to destroy the bone holding our teeth, we call it periodontitis. The most important thing that we can do to reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth is to keep it clean, especially between the teeth where our normal toothbrushes do not fit. Plaque control should be performed thoroughly at least once per day, but more frequently is preferred. Please ask us for advice on the most effective method of plaque control for your mouth.
Increasing our resistance to periodontal disease: Smoking has been shown to increase the risk of tooth loss due to periodontitis ten times more than a non-smoker. It is best to cut back on smoking and preferably stop. Smoking has been shown to effect our immune system, thus increasing our risk to periodontal disease, heart disease, and cancer.
Stress, believe it or not, will also affect our immune system and reduce our resistance to periodontal disease. Anything that can be done to better manage our time and sources of stress will help prevent periodontal disease.
Diabetes is a systemic disease that can also dramatically reduce our resistance to periodontal disease. Following your physicians guidelines with respect to a low calorie diet rich in protein along with exercise and prescribed medications is a must. Maintaining a stable level of blood sugar and following the other guidelines for plaque control and maintenance will counter act the effects of diabetes on your gums.
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Copyright © 2002 Dale R. Johnstone, DDS