Periodontal disease in Hillsboro, OR and across the United States is marked by red, swollen, pus-filled gums that pull away from tooth roots. Most commonly caused by poor dental hygiene, millions of adults suffer from this devastating but treatable oral infection.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimate that approximately half adult Americans over the age of 30 have periodontal or advanced gum disease. Characterized by red, swollen, bleeding gum tissue, periodontitis leads to tooth and bone loss and also to systemic conditions such as diabetes, heart attack, asthma and more.

What causes gum disease?

Gum disease is caused by a variety of factors, including poor dental hygiene. When brushing, flossing and professional cleanings are neglected, sticky, bacteria-filled plaque forms on teeth and below the gum line.

Left untreated, the plaque quickly turns into rock-hard tartar, creating infected pockets in gum tissue. Pockets measuring more than 5 mm indicate advanced periodontitis and need dental attention before teeth loosen and are lost and before jaw bone is destroyed.

In addition, other factors play into gum disease. Heredity is one of them. If family members tend toward gum issues, you may develop them as well over time. So, it’s important to alert your Hillsboro, OR dentist to your medical history, including conditions that seem to run in the family.

Besides heredity, hormonal changes such as those associated with pregnancy and menopause play into gum disease. So, women should not neglect their dental check-ups during these important seasons of life. Additionally, some medical conditions which suppress the immune system, such as diabetes and cancer, promote gum problems as do medications such as antidepressants and oral contraceptives

Another common culprit is tobacco use. Centers for Disease Control (CDC)  research pegs cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco as loaded with toxins which destroy gum tissue. Smoking steals vital oxygen and other nutrients from the mouth, making it prone to gum infection. Combine tobacco with other risk factors such as obesity and poor diet, and periodontitis is the result.

What can be done about Hillsboro, OR periodontal disease?

The best action is a trip to your Hillsboro, OR dentists, Doctors Brandon and Malinda Kearbey.  These Dentists at Orenco Station are passionate about preventive dentistry and can measure the extent of your gum issues,  suggesting treatments such as:

• stepped up brushing and flossing at home
• professional tooth and root scaling to remove tartar
• instillation of antimicrobial medication to heal infected tissues
• referral to oral surgery if advanced techniques are required to restore gums, roots and jaw bone to full health

Don’t delay getting periodontal therapy in the Hillsboro area

Doctors Brandon and Malinda Kearbey desire great oral health and overall well-being for each of their patients. They believe excellent preventive care keeps teeth and gums healthy so their patients can keep their smiles for their entire lives.

If it’s been a while since you had a hygienic cleaning and dental check-up, please call The Dentists at Orenco Station today to arrange a convenient appointment. Your oral health is too important to neglect.