Every year, Dr. Clagett sees patients who are suffering from gum disease. Many of these Kentucky men and women have been dealing with the discomfort and frustrations of this condition for years. As we’ve mentioned before, gum disease isn’t something to “leave alone,” and it won’t go away on its own. In fact, recent studies indicate that gum disease could be directly related to Alzheimer’s Disease.
To learn more about gum disease and how it could truly affect your overall health and wellbeing, keep reading.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontitis or periodontal disease, develops when gingivitis is left untreated. As bacteria grows beneath the gum line, toxins are produced, causing irritated and inflamed gums. The body then responds to these toxins by turning on itself – this results in a chronic condition. Kentucky men and women who have severe gum disease also experience separation of the gums from the teeth. This separation leaves room for pockets to form, which hold bacteria even closer to the teeth, and as a result, more gum and bone deterioration occurs. If left untreated, people may experience loose teeth or even teeth that fall out.
What Causes Gum Disease and How Do I Know if I Have it?
The main cause of gum disease for Kentucky residents is poor oral health. However, there are other factors that can contribute to its development, including:
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Genetics
- Hormonal changes
- Diabetes
- Medications
- Other health problems
People who have gum disease often experience the following symptoms:
- Bad breath that won’t go away
- Red or swollen gums
- Tender or bleeding gums
- Pain when chewing
- Loose teeth
- Sensitive teeth
- Receding gums
Dr. Clagett is a specialist in treating gum disease. Just as important as his training is his plainspoken, supportive, and no-blame style of care. If you’ve been suffering from the symptoms of gum disease, he’ll help you understand what’s happening, explain your options for solving the problem, and make you healthier and more comfortable through gum disease treatment.
Gum Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease
As we mentioned, gum disease affects your overall health. In a recent study published by the journal Science Advances, researchers uncovered a potential link related to the key bacteria (P. gingivalis) found in people with chronic periodontitis. Researchers found this same bacteria in the brain tissue, spinal fluid, and saliva of living and deceased individuals known to have suffered from Alzheimer’s. The toxic enzyme that is secreted by P. gingivalis, gingipains, was identified in 96% of the brain tissue samples that were analyzed.
So, all science-speak aside, researchers have suspected for years that gum disease and Alzheimer’s Disease could be related – this recent study furthers that belief. While a definite and absolute correlation has yet to be proven, these findings are a major step forward in the potential treatment of Alzheimer’s.
Call Dr. Clagett’s Office Today
If you suspect or know you’re suffering from gum disease, don’t wait a minute longer to call Derby City Dental Specialists in Kentucky. Only through a thorough examination can he diagnose and treat your condition appropriately.
Dr. Clagett is a board-certificate periodontist with years of experience serving the people of Kentucky. He is a specialist in the areas of periodontitis and dental implant placement. The level of skill and care he provides to each of his patients cannot be matched, and you can know that he will do everything in his power to rid your mouth of gum disease for good!
To make an appointment for an evaluation, call his office today.
