The Many Faces of Periodontitis 3 Common Forms of Gum Disease Identified
You may not realize it, but gingivitis is one of the mildest forms of gum disease. The word “gingivitis” may sound intimidating, but it’s very treatable and completely reversible. However, if left untreated, it can get worse and lead to further complications along the gums and the base of the teeth. Let’s take a look at a few of the common forms and the progression of periodontal disease. Gingivitis is easy to identify. Many people experience bad breath and their gums become inflamed, red, swollen, and sensitive to touch. Ordinary brushing and flossing can cause gums to bleed. When that happens, people with gingivitis feel discouraged to regularly brush and floss, or they may brush more delicately, leaving behind the biofilm and bacteria that cause gum disease. The truth is that diligent flossing and proper brushing — along with a full dental cleaning — can help heal your gums. Chronic periodontitis is essentially the progression of gingivitis if it’s not properly treated. In addition to inflamed and sensitive gums, the gum line may begin to recede, and pocketing may occur. When that happens,
the gums start to pull away from the teeth. This is caused by enzymes known as collagenases, which break down collagen structure, leading to softer gums. At the same time, teeth may start to feel loose. Aggressive periodontitis isn’t as common as either gingivitis or chronic periodontitis, but when it does take hold, it usually appears in people under the age of 30. It also comes in two forms: localized aggressive periodontitis, or LAP, and generalized aggressive periodontitis, or GAP. Many of the same symptoms carry over from other forms of the disease, but they may be more destructive to both the gum and underlying bone. When you know the early signs of periodontal disease, you can address the cause right then and there, saving you a lot of trouble down the road in treatment costs and your general health. If you notice any redness or inflammation, call us at (888) 592-0974 to make an appointment so we can stop periodontal disease it in its tracks before it becomes an issue. Don’t wait on your health.
Have a LAUGH
Senegalese LAMB SKEWERS
Adapted from a recipe by famed Southern chef Sean Brock, these skewers are seasoned in a Senegalese style and served alongside mustard-flavored onions.
1. Luke: What did the judge say to the dentist?
INGREDIENTS For the lamb •
Mary: I don’t know. What?
• • • •
1/2 cup Dijon mustard 1/2 tbsp agave nectar
2 lbs trimmed leg of lamb, cut into 1-inch cubes 1 tbsp peanut oil, plus more for grilling
Luke: “Do you swear to pull the tooth, the whole tooth, and nothing but the tooth?”
1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
•
Salt and white pepper, to taste
Equipment •
•
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Bamboo skewers
2. What is a dentist’s favorite time of day?
For the onions: •
1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
DIRECTIONS 1. In a bowl, coat lamb with 1 tbsp oil and generously season with salt and pepper. 2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together vinegar, mustard, and agave nectar. Toss in onions and season with salt and pepper. 3. Heat a grill or grill pan to medium and oil the grates. 4. Thread lamb on skewers and grill for 6–8 minutes. 5. Serve alongside onions.
Tooth-hurty!
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