Health and Fitness

Scientists and doctors are just starting to understand the true nature of gum disease. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection to the gums that initially has no major symptoms. But, while individuals are ignoring minor symptoms, gum disease is silently wreaking havoc on the mouth and even other areas of the body.

Thankfully, this disease is a highly treatable illness. There are several tests dentists use to screen for gum disease. There is the basic oral exam, where dentists look for bleeding gums, inflammations, and infections. There is also a probe test, where dentists push on teeth to determine the stability of the gums. However, only one test accurately diagnoses the type of bacteria that has caused infection. This test is a Bacterial DNA test.

A research company dedicated to studying periodontal disease, there are 11 periodontal pathogens most commonly linked to gum disease, and the DNA test can readily verify which strain has infected the mouth. Other examinations and tests can verify the presence of gum disease, but there are many strains of bacteria that cause varying levels of this disease.

In cases where periodontal disease is likely present, it is imperative to perform a DNA test on the patient. DNA testing verifies the type of bacteria involved, which allows dentists to accurately prescribe the correct antibiotic. This is crucial in cases that require antibiotic treatment, as it in avoids complications that come with incorrect medicine.

Why is DNA Testing Important?
When determining the presence of gum disease underneath the gum-line, a DNA test is the only sure-fire diagnosis method. In advanced or severe stages of gum disease, the bacteria will have moved underneath the gum-line to tooth roots and even bone. In these cases, antibiotics are required, but administering the proper antibiotic depends on which strand of bacteria the patient is suffering from.

Procedure
The Bacterial DNA test is a quick, simple procedure. During the test, paper points are placed under the gum line for approximately 15 seconds. During this time, the paper absorbs bacteria under the gum-line.

Each strain of bacteria has unique identifying qualities that lab technicians can readily identify. After studying the test samples, results are sent back to the dentist, who can administer the proper treatment, be it antibiotics or other treatment such as laser therapy, scaling and root planning (SRP), or surgery if necessary.

Who Should Be Tested
There are several conditions that make individuals susceptible to gum disease. Genetics plays a big part, as well as dental hygiene, hormonal changes, medical history, and immune system strength all contribute to gum disease vulnerability.

The truth is that 85% of adults have some form of gum disease. But out of all those individuals, a majority won’t come in for an exam for any number of reasons. Gum disease is preventable and highly treatable, but so often patients wait too long to come in for a screening.

Though gum disease is hard to recognize in its early phases, there are several symptoms. these symptoms include: bleeding gums, sensitive or swollen gums, bad breath, or loose teeth.

Treatment
Depending on the severity of the condition, there are several methods to treat this disease. Generally, there is SRP, laser therapy, and antibiotics.

SRP is the process in which tartar and plaque are removed from tooth surfaces and roots. Plaque is the breeding ground for bacteria associated with gum disease, therefore removing plaque from the mouth is the first step in preventing or treating this disease. Also, since plaque fastens easier to rough surfaces, root planing smoothes irregularities of the root surface.

Laser therapy and antibiotics are adjuncts to SRP. Laser therapy utilizes various wavelengths that target bacteria and remove remaining bacteria cells after SRP. Antibiotics also attack bacteria, but attack white blood cells at the same time. This leads to a weak immune system and opens the body to other illnesses during treatment.

Unless the patient needs surgery, treating this disease provides patients with healthier smiles, stable gums, and an overall healthier body. The best defense is good hygiene and prevention. Often, patients feel awkward about making an appointment to check out swollen gums or plaque, but it’s far better to be safe than sorry.

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To learn more about periodontal disease or to schedule a consultation with Flower Mound dentist Dr. Jonathan Golab, visit Our website Or, to schedule a consultation with Flower Mound Cosmetic Dentist, call: 972-691-1700.