FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 2000CONTACT:Fred Peterson[email protected]
Jann Ingmire[email protected]312-440-2806
Gum Disease Major Culprit in Tooth Loss Among Boomer Population
CHICAGO -- Three out of four adults experience periodontal (gum) disease at some time in their life, but the good news is that it can often be prevented or treated in its early stages, according to the American Dental Association (ADA).
"This disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among baby boomers and older adults in the United States," said Richard Price, D.M.D., an ADA consumer advisor and a practicing dentist in the Boston area. "It's an infection in which bacteria attack the tissues that surround and support the teeth."
Gingivitis and milder forms of periodontitis are common in adults, he said.
Among adults aged 35 to 44, approximately 48 percent have gingivitis in which the gums may become red, swollen and easily bleed.
Severe periodontal disease causes damage to the gums, bone and other structures that support the teeth. "When this happens, teeth can become loose and fall out or they may have to be removed," he said. "The percentage of people with moderate to severe periodontal disease increases with age. For example, 23 percent of 65 to 74 year olds have severe periodontal disease compared with 14 percent of adults aged 45 to 54."
Moreover, recent research suggests there may be a link between gum disease and other health problems, he said. For example, several studies point out associations between gum disease and the development of cardiovascular problems. Although more research is needed, there is some evidence that bacteria in the mouth, which are associated with gum disease, may be linked to heart disease, artery blockages and stroke. And people with diabetes often have periodontal disease as well, he said.
Dr. Price says if you schedule regular dental checkups, your dentist can detect developing periodontal disease before the gums and the bone supporting your teeth are irreversibly damaged. "Periodontal disease tends to be progressive," he explained, "left untreated, the condition will worsen."
"Practice preventive dental care every day and avoid using tobacco products," he cautioned. "Tobacco is a major risk factor for oral cancer, and for the development and progression of periodontal diseases."
Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to prevent cavities, he continued. Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners. Eat well-balanced meals and limit snacks and schedule regular dental visits.
"As we age, good oral health is more important now than ever before. Teeth are meant to last a lifetime," he added. "And it's a myth that adults can expect to lose many more teeth later in life."
Recognize the warning signs of gum disease
-- Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth.
-- Gums that are red, tender or swollen.
-- Gums that have receded from the teeth.
-- Pus between the teeth and gums when the gums are pressed.
-- Loose teeth or teeth that are moving apart.
-- Any changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.
-- Any changes in the fit of your partial dentures.
-- Persistent bad breath or bad taste.
For more information about the American Dental Association's (ADA) position on this and other oral health issues, visit the ADA Web site at www.ada.org.
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