Saturday, September 25, 2010

Gum Disease a significant health concern

Gum Disease more prevalent than first thought.

While some estimates of the prevalence of gum disease in adults are as high as 80% , some studies by the Centers for Disease Control CDC) apparently had indicated a much lower rate. These earlier studies are now being called into question. The rate may be as much as 50% higher than reported earlier according to the CDC and the Journal of Dental Research JDR and the American Association of Periodontists (AAP)

See attached article from Science Daily.

Periodontal disease is one of the most common communicable diseases known to man. It has medical implications beyond simply the gum tissue as the inflammatory process associated with this disease is implicated in several other potentially life threatening conditions like heart disease, stroke, diabetes low birth weight in children and rheumatoid arthritis.

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums associated with inflammation, bone loss and is mediated by hygiene, heredity, anatomy, bacterial type, stress on the periodontal ligament (biting forces), and restorations present. It is usually chronic and can greatly drag down the body's immune system.

Detection usually requires a dental and medical health history probing, x-rays, and observation by a dentist and /or hygienist.

To learn the signs and symptoms' of periodontal disease, click here.

Periodontal disease can easily go undetected until late stages when teeth loosen and fall out or begin moving. Early detection and regular dental follow up are key in controlling this devastating disease. Treatments can vary depending upon the location, severity of the disease.

With the advent of Laser treatments, periodontal disease now has a great new tool to help control the process.

We at Crystal Lake Dental Associates take great pride in being the only office in McHenry County to offer the Periolase© Laser gum treatment called LANAP.

To learn more about periodontal disease click here.

To learn more about laser gum treatment, click here.

I welcome your comments.

Sincerely,

Phillip C Neal DDS

Crystal Lake Dental Associates

20 B Memorial court

Crystal Lake, IL 60014

815 4596 2202

www.DrNeal.com

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About Me

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Born in the Midwest. Married with 6 children and 3 grandchildren. Attended Maine West High School, Harper Jr College, Northern Illinois University, the University of Illinois College of Dentistry. Practice in Crystal Lake, Illinois.