Wayne B. Mollohan, D.M.D
401-822-3390
What is Periodontal Disease
?
Periodontal disease is inflammation caused
by an infection. It is a life time chronic disease that occurs in genetically
susceptible individuals. Has anyone in your family had gum disease? Family
history is very important! It is the most common disease in
United States and has a prevalence 50 to 70% of the population.
Do you know your
numbers?
If not, why not? Is the most important part of your dental
examination being ignored?
The only way to diagnose periodontal disease is to use a special ruler to
measure pockets around your
teeth. We check your numbers at every
hygiene visit.
Periodontal disease is silent, usually there is no pain and can strike at
anytime. It is
not normal to
bleed from your gums. If you do, you need to be examined.
It has been shown in
recent studies to be
associated with an increased risk for stroke and heart attack. There has
been a recent discovery of a genetic link between Periodontal Disease and Heart
Disease.
Diabetics with periodontal disease will have more difficulty controlling their insulin/glucose
level.
A Harvard study in 2007 demonstrated a worrisome association with
pancreatic cancer.
There is also an association between periodontal
disease, low birth weight and premature babies.
More insurance companies are offering incentives
for women who are pregnant to be examined and treated for periodontal disease!
Let us help you manage your disease. Call our office
at 401-822-3390 for an exam to stay healthy!
We can provide you with the tools you need to keep
your teeth and stay healthy.
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