Gum Disease
Articles
What are the Stages of Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth. It is caused by the bacteria in plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth.
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What is Gingivitis? Signs and Symptoms
What is Gingivitis? Gingivitis — an inflammation of the gums — is the initial stage of gum disease and the easiest to treat. The direct cause of gingivitis is plaque - the soft, sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms constantly on the teeth and gums.
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Periodontal Disease and Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease affects the heart and/or blood vessels. More than 50 million Americans experience cardiovascular problems and cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death and disability in the United States. By the time heart problems are detected, the underlying cause (atherosclerosis) is usually quite advanced.
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Periodontal Disease and Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin
is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. Of the 20.8 million children and adults in the United States who have diabetes, nearly one-third are unaware that they have the disease.
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Periodontal Disease and Obesity
Many medical professionals consider obesity to be a chronic disease. It is well understood that obesity is on the rise in the United States, and that younger and younger members of our community are becoming obese due to poor nutrition and eating habits. Research has demonstrated that obesity will increase the risk for hypertension, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, CVD, respiratory problems, and endometrial, breast, prostate, and colon cancers.
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Dental Scaling and Root Planing to Keep Your Teeth and Mouth Clean
Left untreated, a plaque infection can move beyond the tooth and into the supporting bone. Learn how dental scaling and root planning can remove plaque, tartar and infected gum tissue and return your mouth to a healthy state.
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Gum Surgery — What Do I Need to Know?
The National Institutes of Health report that 80 percent of adults in the United States have some form of periodontal disease. This infection from plaque build-up can lead to loss of teeth and supporting bone if not treated through gum surgery. Learn what to expect during surgery and how to prevent future infection.
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Videos and Interactive Guides
How to Brush
Learn the technique recommended for the best cleaning.
How to Floss
Find simple instructions for effective flossing.
Fresh Breath Assessment
How fresh is your breath? Find out by visiting the Fresh Breath Institute.
Guide to Brushing
Test your brushing skills with our FUN 3-D brusher.
