How Much Do You Know About Gum Disease?

1. Which of the following are risk factors for gum disease (periodontitis)?

a. Pregnancy
b. Underbite
c. Diabetes
d. Genetic make-up

2. Which of the things listed below are possible signs of gum disease?

a. Teeth that look like they are longer
b. A change in the way dentures fit
c. Bleeding gums
d. Inflamed gums

3. Which of the following are possible health matters linked to untreated gum disease?

a. Asthma
b. Low birth weight babies
c. Parkinson’s Disease
d. Stroke

4. What percentage of people age 65+ have gum disease?

a. 5%
b. 12%
c. 25%
d. 50%

5. Which of the following services are used for gum disease?

a. Scaling and root planing
b. Gum grafting
c. Flap surgery
d. Flip surgery

Answers
1. All of the above. Pregnancy, menopause, or any other condition that causes hormonal changes is a risk factor as is any type of malocclusion.
2. All of the above. Note: some patients don’t see any symptoms.
3. a,b,d.
4. c.
5. a,b,c.

Hi, I’m Doctor Coleman of Dennis J Coleman DDS – Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Davidson. Gum disease usually responds favorably to treatment—especially if caught early. If you haven’t seen a dentist in a while, or have been noticing dilemmas with your gums or teeth, I invite you to call 704-896-5850 today to schedule an appointment.

Sources:
John Donavan, “5 Things You Didn’t Know About Your Teeth,” WebMD, December 15, 2015, http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/5-things-you-didnt-know-about-your-teeth#3, accessed March 20, 2017
“Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments,” National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/OralHealth/Topics/GumDiseases/PeriodontalGumDisease.htm, accessed March 20, 2017
“Diseases and Conditions Periodontitis,” Mayo Clinic, February 4, 2014, http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/periodontitis/basics/risk-factors/con-20021679, accessed March 20, 2017