Preventive Dentistry

Gum Disease Can Mean Lost Teeth
The most common reason people lose teeth is because of gum disease, not decay. Sometimes symptoms are not apparent, but bleeding gums while brushing or flossing and shifting or loose teeth are indications of some level of infected gums. If you have already been told you need gum surgery, you will be pleased to know if the infection is not advanced, there are nonsurgical methods that can reverse the problem.

Beyond the Obvious IssuesRecent research has revealed that gum disease is more serious than losing your teeth. Periodontal (gum) infection is linked to heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. These conditions can be fatal, and dentists now regard gum infection as a more serious matter. The American Dental Association has projected that nearly 80% of all Americans have gum disease at some stage, which puts it at epidemic proportions.

The American Academy of Periodontology reports that "studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases." The bacterial infection of the gums travels throughout the bloodstream, reaching vital organs and contributing to serious health problems.

There Is Hope!
Gum surgery is the treatment for periodontal infection in the advanced phase. It is mostly successful in stopping the condition. We emphasize if you have any gum bleeding or loose teeth to let us know, because in the milder stages of gum disease, there are options of nonsurgical procedures. Together with better daily dental care, the disease will be halted. Both surgical and nonsurgical procedures are covered by most dental insurance plans.

The Truth About Lost Teeth
Do you know what problems can result when you lose a tooth? Having even just one missing tooth can cause the other teeth to shift or move. This will affect chewing and the amount of nutrients you absorb from your food. It becomes more difficult to chew healthier food choices like fresh fruit and vegetables, so softer foods with higher calorie content may be favored. This will result in unwanted weight gain. The appearance of your face may change, taking on a hollowed look in the jaw and mouth areas and adding years to your appearance. We can take care of these problems with dental implants. They can replace as many teeth as are missing. They function just like real teeth and look so good, a dentist would have a hard time telling they are not your own.

A Painless Treatment for Gum Disease
The primary cause of tooth loss is gum disease. Our doctors combat this infection with a very effective antibiotic called ARESTIN™. It is a powder that contains invisible microspheres that are time released and delivered directly to the infected areas. It is powerful, yet painless in the fight against periodontal (gum) disease. 

Connecticut Family Dental 
171 Grandview Avenue, Suite 103 
Waterbury, CT 06708 
(203) 574-2725 
www.CTFDental.com