By the age of 15,
4 out of 5 Americans are affected by gingivitis, the
earliest stage of Periodontal Disease, an infection of
the teeth, gums and bone. Periodontal disease is rarely
painful in the early stages and most people are unaware of it
when they could be doing most about it.
Periodontal Disease is caused chiefly by plaque, the invisible
accumulation of sticky food and bacteria on the teeth. Unless
it is constantly removed by flossing and brushing, plaque mineralizes
into tarter, the hardened film on which periodontal bacteria
thrive, especially on the root surfaces under the gums. Periodontal
bacteria produce toxins that destroy the bone surrounding the
tooth.
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It is important
to catch Periodondal Disease early.
In addition to x-rays, our dental exam includes probing the pockets
around the teeth.
Pockets deeper than 3 mm indicate the need for preventive
therapy.
Other warning signs: bone loss or tarter on x-rays;
bleeding, red, or swollen gums.
Come into
our Manhattan office to understand if you have a periodontal condition with one of our dentists.
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