Periodontal Risk Factors

  Periodontal Disease --WARNING SIGNS:

• gums that bleed easily
• red, swollen or tender gums
• persistent bad breath or bad taste
• gums that have pulled away from teeth
• pus between teeth and gums
• loose or separating permanent teeth
• any change in the way your teeth fit

  NOTE: It is possible to have disease with no warning signs at all. Regular check ups are a must.

RISK FACTORS:

• tobacco use (both smoking and smokeless tobacco)
• ill-fitting bridges, crowns and fillings
• bad-bite
• clenching or grinding teeth
• poor diet
• pregnancy and the use of oral contraceptives
• systemic disease such as diabetes or AIDS
• medications (steroids, anti-epilepsy, cancer therapy, blood pressure medications, oral contraceptives)

Maintenance

Avoiding or managing periodontal disease requires great client, dental hygienist and dentist teamwork. Good oral hygiene at home is essential to help keep periodontal disease from becoming more serious or recurring. Following a period of active therapy, our office will need to see you at regular intervals. You don't have to lose your teeth to Bone Disease. With teamwork, great home care, balanced diet, and regular check ups you can enjoy a healthy smile for a lifetime.