Clean mouth, better health, just the facts

Periodontal disease attacks the gums and bone that hold the teeth in place, and it is the most ignored dental problem in America, as well as the most common. It costs Americans more teeth than all other causes combined.

Tens of thousands of toothless Americans found out about the disease too late. There’s one overriding reason why periodontal disease is ignored: It sneaks up on its victims, working painlessly over a period of 20 to 30 years in most cases.

It also gets an early start. Dental studies reveal that by age 13, about four out of every five youngsters have already begun the slow but sure march to periodontal damage.

Trouble is, people think of dental problems in terms of aching teeth. Generally, if they don’t feel any pain, they don’t think anything is wrong. Your gums bleed when you brush. You’ve got bad breath. Your gums are soft, swollen or tender. Your gums are retreating from your teeth. Your teeth have changed their position, slightly, making your “bite” different. Any of your teeth are loose.

Pus seeps from your gums when you press them

The disease is caused by bacteria and hard calcified deposits lodged between the gum and tooth. It develops through progressive inflammation of the gum tissue and gradual destruction of the bone that surrounds the roots of the teeth and holds them firmly in place.

Professional periodontal treatment is an investment in the health of your mouth and your overall well-being.

Join our family of happy patients. Marlisa Popper, D.D.S., prosthodontist, specializes in prosthetics, restorative, cosmetic and implant dentistry, from single teeth to full mouth treatment. Jason Popper, D.D.S., D.A.B., perio and Howard Popper, D.D.S., D.A.B., perio, both specialize in periodontics and implant dentistry. They may be reached in Melville, Long Island at (631) 385-9400 or by visiting online at www.incredibleimplants.com.