Daniel R. Melnick D.D.S

Periodontics

Laurel, Columbia, Fulton and Silver Spring, Maryland

Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with the health of the foundational support of the teeth, namely the gums and bone. For years, dentists viewed gum disease as a local problem. However, the most recent medical research has revealed a mouth/body connection. Maryland dentists, Drs. Dan Melnick and Maurice Miles want their patients to be aware of this research and will take the time to work with them in making informed decisions about their needs.

What problems are associated with gum disease?

• Cancer
• Arteriosclerosis
• Diabetes
• Osteoporosis
• Stroke
• Heart disease
• Respiratory disease

How does gum disease happen?

Bacteria are always present in your mouth, but when they accumulate above normal levels, they form a biofilm called plaque on your teeth. Over time, if this soft film is not removed by daily brushing and flossing or periodic professional dental cleanings, this film absorbs calcium from the saliva and becomes hardened into what is called calculus or tartar. In either form, bacteria can penetrate the gum tissue and lead to inflammation and gum bleeding. This is the initial stage of gum disease, and it may serve as a precursor to more serious problems. High numbers of bacteria in the mouth have been found to enter the bloodstream where they may attach to the walls of the blood vessels increasing the likelihood of cardiovascular disease or be spread throughout the body resulting in an inflammatory response. This response has been found to place patients at higher risk for the above mentioned problems.

On a local level, the bacteria may cause the interruption of the gum attachment and with increasing burrowing of germs, loss of bone support. In fact, more teeth are lost in this country due to gum disease than due to tooth decay. Studies also illustrate that the more teeth that a patient loses, the shorter their average lifespan. It is for these reasons that the Mayo Clinic has put out a position paper declaring that a healthy mouth could mean an extra 10 years of living, on average.

What can I do?

The good news is that preventing gum disease need not be difficult. Eating a healthy diet, following good daily oral hygiene, and having regular periodic professional dental cleanings do the job for most people.

To learn more about how gum disease can affect your oral and general health, please contact Laurel Lakes Cosmetic Dentistry today to schedule a thorough evaluation of your mouth, teeth, and gums.