(314) 892-8853 • St. Louis, MO
Gum Health
Periodontitis
The Most Common Cause of Lost Teeth
Many people blame cavities as the prime reason for loss of teeth. But when a person has tooth decay, they usually know there's a problem before major damage occurs. Gum disease is a different story and the leading cause of tooth loss. Why? Because it can be painless even up to the point of losing your teeth. If brushing and flossing causes your gums to bleed or if you have teeth that are loose, please call us immediately. Gum disease has often been corrected with surgery, but our office also provides nonsurgical methods to correct the problem.
Gum Disease Contributes to Other Serious Health Problems
The bacterial infection of the gums that can cause tooth loss is called
periodontal disease. But missing teeth may be the least concerning result.
Medical research has evidence of a link between gum disease, strokes, and
heart disease. Since it's estimated that 8 out of 10 people in the U.S. have
this dental condition, many dentists call this an epidemic. As the bacteria
from the infected gums move in the bloodstream to every part of the body,
this can create very serious health conditions, especially in the heart.
Since heart disease and stroke can be fatal, gum disease is a critical
problem that must be addressed.
Solutions for Gum Disease
In advanced cases, surgery is the required treatment for gum infection. Luckily, the success rate is high. In less severe cases, nonsurgical methods can be used. When combined with a patient's improved dental hygiene, the spread of the infection can be stopped. Both of these treatments have coverage with most dental insurance policies.
Single Tooth Loss
The Consequences of Lost Teeth
Losing a tooth may not seem to be a big deal, but even one starts other teeth shifting and moving. This affects the ability to chew, which can affect nutrient absorption. Many patients choose softer foods, which could result in weight gain. Bone loss and gaps can give your face a sunken appearance, increasing your apparent age, and speech may no longer be clear. Replacement of the tooth is the best solution. We offer dental implants for any number of lost teeth. Implants are so natural-looking, even a dentist can hardly tell the difference.
A Painless Treatment for Gum Disease
Drs. Stewart and Vadnal are pleased to bring their patients ARESTIN™, a
powerful weapon in the fight against gum disease. The medication contains a
time-released antibiotic in very tiny microspheres of powder that deliver
the antibiotic directly to the spaces between the gums and teeth, where the
infection thrives. ARESTIN kills the bacteria that cause gum disease. The
best part is that it's all painless!
We can help arrest your gum disease and bring your smile back to health. Give us a call today at (314) 892-8853.