We hear more and more about periodontal disease these days and the impact it can have on our oral health. But many new patients at our San Bruno Periodontal Dentistry office do not understand what periodontal disease is or how it impacts their health. It is important to understand because statistics show three out of four people have symptoms of the disease.

What is periodontal disease?

All day long bacteria develop on the surface of your teeth and near the gumline. When you eat and drink, a sticky film called plaque develops. Plaque is a film of bacteria that coats your tooth enamel and oral tissue. You can remove some plaque buildup with regular brushing and flossing. But even the most conscientious at-home oral hygiene alone simply cannot eliminate plaque completely.

How do I know if I have periodontal disease?

Some of the most common symptoms of periodontal disease are:

• Swollen, red or inflamed gums
• Bleeding gums while brushing or flossing
• Bad breath or a bad taste even after using mouthwash or brushing your teeth
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when biting down.
• A feeling that your teeth are coming loose
• Receding gum tissue makes your teeth appear longer

Why is it important to treat periodontal disease?

If you have periodontal disease, it is extremely important to have it taken care of as soon as possible. Periodontal disease not only leads to tooth decay and potential tooth loss. However, many people are unaware of the strong connection that has been established between the presence of periodontal disease and other chronic conditions such as heart disease, respiratory disease, pregnancy complications, and diabetes.

The best way to prevent periodontal disease from developing in the first place is by scheduling regular exams and professional cleanings with the San Bruno Periodontal Dentistry office. If you already know you have gum disease and have been told you need surgery, contact our office. We have surgery-free options for removing periodontal disease that are quick and comfortable and require little or no recovery time.

An increasing number of patients in my practice are reporting a problem with dry mouth. This condition is termed "xerostomia." Xerostomia can be a side effect of the medications a person is taking for illnesses such as high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, allergies, weight loss, Parkinson's disease, pain and many more. However, there are many other factors that contribute to a decrease in salivary production including the aging process, radiation treatments and depression.

 

At San Bruno Dental Medicine we know that, aside from being annoying, the symptoms of dry mouth can cause significant dental hygiene problems. Saliva is the body’s natural cleansing mouth rinse.  Each time we swallow, saliva washes away bacteria, as well as the food and debris on which they feed. Saliva contains compounds that kill bacteria in the mouth, and without proper dental hygiene dry mouth enhances the conditions for bacterial growth (and associated periodontal disease) as the ability to neutralize bacterial waste products is reduced.

 

If you’re experiencing chronic dry mouth and you suspect that it may be due to medication, consult with your medical doctor who may be able to adjust your dosage to help alleviate the problem. Some other steps you can take to reduce symptoms are:

• Using sugar-free candy or gum
• Drinking plenty of water to help keep your mouth moist
• Using a vaporizer to add moisture to the air in your bedroom
• Using an artificial saliva substitute available at your pharmacy

 

The reduction in saliva production leads to the very conditions on which the bacteria in your mouth thrive, allowing bacteria lingering at the gumline and between teeth to cause serious damage, periodontal disease or gingivitis. Since patients with Xerostomia (dry mouth) are at increased risk for periodontal disease, good dental hygiene - brushing regularly with fluoride toothpaste, using a fluoride rinse, and visiting your San Bruno California Dental Office frequently for cleanings and examinations - are critically important to your oral health.

Shopping for oral hygiene aids can be overwhelming. Supermarket shelves are filled with various types of products, and it can be challenging to determine what’s right for you. Today I’m going to provide a quick summary of the different oral hygiene aids available along with their appropriate uses.

Dental Flosses
Dental floss is the most common interdental (below the gum) cleaner and comes in a variety of types and flavors. Floss helps remove food particles and plaque from between teeth. Floss should normally be used twice daily after brushing.

Interdental Brushes
Many hygienists & periodontists recommend interdental brushes in addition to dental floss. These tiny brushes are gentle on the gums and very effective in cleaning the contours of teeth in between the gums.

Mouth Rinses
There are two basic types of mouth rinse available: Cosmetic rinses, used to temporarily suppress bad breath, and therapeutic rinses which may require a prescription from our San Bruno, California Dental Office. Therapeutic rinses are regulated by the FDA and contain active ingredients that can help reduce bad breath, plaque, and cavities. Mouth rinses should generally be used after brushing.

Oral Irrigators
Oral irrigators (like Waterpiks) are designed to clean debris from below the gum line. Water is continuously sprayed from tiny jets, helping to remove harmful bacteria and food particles.

Rubber Tip Stimulators
The rubber tip stimulator is an excellent tool for removing plaque from around the gum line and also for stimulating blood flow to the gums.

Toothbrushes
Electric toothbrushes are generally recommended by dentists because they are much more effective than manual brushes. The vibrating or rotary motion helps to dislodge plaque and remove food particles from around the gums and teeth. Manual toothbrushes can achieve similar results but with greater effort and should be replaced every three months.

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining excellent oral hygiene and diagnosing potential problems, but in-office cleanings are only the first step. If you still have questions, the team at San Bruno General Dentist can recommend the most suitable products for your needs.