Tag: periodontal disease

  • Protect Your Smile from Periodontitis

    Tender, swollen or bleeding gums could be early signs of periodontitis, a serious form of gum disease that damages the bone and soft tissue supporting your teeth. And it’s more common than you might think! About 42% of US adults over 30 have some form of periodontitis.

    Periodontitis begins when plaque builds up from inadequate brushing and flossing, triggering gum inflammation known as gingivitis. Over time, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, forming deep pockets between your gums and teeth that destroy supporting tissue and bone and may eventually cause tooth loss.

    If caught too late, surgery may be needed to repair the damage. Knowing your risk factors is key. These include poor oral hygiene, smoking, aging (most cases develop after age 35), diabetes, poor diet, teeth grinding, stress and genetics.

    The good news? Periodontitis is largely preventable! Brush twice a day, floss daily and see your dentist regularly. If you suspect gum disease, schedule a dentist appointment so your dentist can help create a long-term plan to keep your smile healthy. Taking care of your gums today means fewer costly and uncomfortable problems down the road!

    HAWAII DENTAL SERVICE
    Kahala Howser Pimentel, Wellness Manager
    808-529-9391 | Kahala.Pimentel@HawaiiDentalService.com
    HawaiiDentalService.com

    Tender, swollen or bleeding gums could be early signs of periodontitis, a serious form of gum disease that damages the bone and soft tissue supporting your teeth. And it’s more common than you might think! About 42% of US adults over 30 have some form of periodontitis. Periodontitis begins when plaque builds up from inadequate…

  • Healthy Teeth and Gums at Every Age

    September is National Gum Care Month—a great reminder for kūpuna to care for their oral health and protect their smiles. As we age, maintaining healthy gums becomes even more important to overall well-being. One common concern is gum disease, also called periodontal disease, which affects nearly 60% of adults over age 65.

    Often caused by poor brushing and flossing habits, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and increase the risk of other health problems if left untreated. It is fortunate that it’s both preventable and treatable, especially when caught early.

    Early signs include red or swollen gums, tenderness, bleeding, bad breath, painful chewing and receding gums. These symptoms may seem small but can lead to serious problems.

    To keep your gums healthy, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Regular dental visits are also important, especially if you notice changes. Your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning, such as scaling and root planing, or surgery.

    Caring for your gums is a lifelong habit. This September, make oral health a priority and keep your smile strong for years to come.

    HAWAII DENTAL SERVICE
    Dr. Vinh Tran, DDS, Dental Director
    808-529-9213
    vinh.tran@hawaiidentalservice.com
    HawaiiDentalService.com

    September is National Gum Care Month—a great reminder for kūpuna to care for their oral health and protect their smiles. As we age, maintaining healthy gums becomes even more important to overall well-being. One common concern is gum disease, also called periodontal disease, which affects nearly 60% of adults over age 65. Often caused by…

  • Wisdom Tooth: Major Cause of Tooth Loss

    Wisdom Teeth - Generations Magazine - April-May 2013Periodontal or gum disease is an infection that affects the gums and bone. It starts with plaque, the sticky, colorless layer of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If not removed thoroughly each day, it hardens into tartar or calculus, which irritates the gums. Toxins from the bacteria also irritate gums, and may cause the gums to separate from the teeth. Gingivitis is an early stage of periodontal disease. If untreated, the bone level around the affected teeth may recede, resulting in loose teeth.

    The goal of keeping your teeth for a lifetime ensures you are able to eat a variety of healthy foods, maintain good nutrition and enjoy the foods you love! Gum maintenance is the key.

    The American Dental Association states gum disease is a major cause of adult tooth loss and affects about 75% of Americans. Gum disease is a “silent disease.” When you first feel pain it may be already too late to save your teeth. The warning signs include red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums, or persistent bad breath. Depending on the severity, treatment may include special rinses, extensive cleanings and surgery.

    To prevent gum disease, routine dental exams and cleanings are highly recommended to keep your teeth and gums safe. Visit www.ada.org for proper techniques on brushing and flossing and more information.

    Healthy gums and a strong bone foundation contributes positively to oral and overall health.

    Wynn H. Okuda, DMD, Inc.

    Cosmetic, Implant and Restorative Dentistry
    3660 Waialae Ave., Suite 315, Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96816

    808-734-1099 | www.cosmeticdentistryhawaii.com

    Periodontal or gum disease is an infection that affects the gums and bone. It starts with plaque, the sticky, colorless layer of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If not removed thoroughly each day, it hardens into tartar or calculus, which irritates the gums. Toxins from the bacteria also irritate gums, and may cause the…