Gingivitis (Oral Periodontal Disease)
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums surrounding the teeth caused by the same bacteria that cause plaque. It is the most common periodontal disease, affecting 90% of the general population. Specifically, gingivitis is an infection that occurs when bacteria invade the soft tissues and bone. These bacteria release damaging toxins that result in inflammation and infection of the gum tissue, as well as encourage plaque to grow. Eventually, the plaque hardens and forms hard deposits called calculus or tartar. In small amounts, plaque is invisible to the naked eye and relatively harmless. But when left untreated, plaque increases in volume and the amount of harmful bacteria grows.
Individuals who take certain medications or who suffer from a chronic illness, such as diabetes or HIV, are more susceptible to harmful oral bacteria and should be particularly diligent when it comes to good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. Periodontal diseases are usually classified according to their severity. These diseases range from mild gingivitis (swelling and inflammation), to more severe periodontitis (odor-causing bacteria and infection), and finally acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis, a severe disease of the mouth which can be life threatening.
Xerostomia (Dry Mouth Syndrome)
Xerostomia, also known as "dry mouth syndrome," occurs when the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva to keep the mouth adequately moist. Saliva is necessary for chewing, swallowing, tasting, and talking, so these activities may be more challenging with a very dry mouth. Additionally, because saliva serves as a natural lubricant and cleanser and helps to maintain a healthy bacterial balance in the mouth, a very dry mouth can contribute to an increased an incidence of dental cavities and gum disease, as well as trouble swallowing. One effect of xerostomia is a "sticky" tongue, which makes speaking clearly difficult in some cases. Another result of dry mouth is that food lacks flavor, so digestion can be affected. This annoying lack of sufficient saliva affects 3 out of 10 Americans.
Xerostomia often occurs naturally with aging, but it is also a side effect of many medications, including antidepressants, diuretics, and some painkillers. Dry mouth can also be the result of a mouth infection (fungal or bacterial) or dehydration. Additionally, dry mouth can be caused by chemotherapy or radiation treatment, both of which damage the salivary glands. Xerostomia caused by chemotherapy is usually temporary and tends to clear up 2 to 8 weeks after treatment ends.
Symptoms of xerostomia:
- sticky, dry feeling in the mouth
- thick, stringy saliva
- pain or a burning sensation in the mouth or on the tongue
- cracks in the lips or at the corners of the mouth
- a dry, tough tongue
- difficulty chewing, tasting, or swallowing
- difficulty talking
- difficulty wearing dentures
- mouth sores or mouth infections
- tooth decay
We believe in a whole-body approach to dental care. We can help relieve the symptoms of xerostomia by prescribing dry mouth toothpaste, saliva-producing chewing gum, or saliva substitute solutions. Please call us if you have questions about xerostomia and how we can help.
