Gum Health

Cause of Lost Teeth
Part of our care is providing education to each patient for the reasons of tooth loss. Many seem to think that tooth loss occurs primarily because of decay. But the number one reason is periodontal or gum disease. Early detection can reverse this serious problem. So if you have bleeding gums, loose or shifting teeth, please let us help you return to healthy teeth and gums.


A Connection Between Periodontal Disease and Heart Disease
Studies made by the American Dental Association have shown that there is a connection between gum disease and other serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or even stroke. Researchers have found that people who have elevated levels of bacteria from the mouth had a higher probability of hardened arteries. It is important to come in to our office for treatment if you have any of the symptoms of gum disease – bleeding or swollen gums, loose teeth, or a receding gumline. This could be not only an indication of gum disease, but an early sign of a serious cardiovascular problem. You probably won’t feel your cholesterol rising or your arteries hardening, but you will feel painful or bleeding gums. Call us today if you have this problem.


Treatments for Gum Disease
It is important to have an appointment with Dr. Crider with the first symptoms of gum disease. When this problem reaches advanced stages, the treatment will be surgical. However, if treated in the beginning stages, nonsurgical methods are effective and successful in halting any infection that could have an effect on your overall health. Treatments could be a professional dental cleaning, scaling or root planing, or antibiotics. We will assess your needs and discuss a treatment plan with you at your first visit.


The Problem with Losing a Tooth
Many patients do not realize the problems that can result from losing even a single tooth. As your teeth play a major role in absorbing nutrients from food, it is important to have proper chewing with a full set of teeth. Your diet may change as eating healthy, raw fruits and vegetables becomes difficult with the absence of teeth. Eating softer, processed foods may increase your carbohydrate intake and result in weight gain. Also, your speech can become slurred or distorted, which may have an effect on job performance and professionalism. Your facial appearance may change, as bone or tooth loss will give a hollow look along the contours of your face and make you look older than you are. We provide a very suitable solution with implants. They look so natural no one will ever be able to tell it is not a real tooth.

Cori K. Crider, DDS
2444 Packard Road
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
(734) 572-4428