Gum Disease
Madison, WI

As oral surgeons, we here at Madison Oral Surgery & Dental Implants often treat oral health problems significant enough to require surgical intervention. However, we also strive to help our patients maintain healthy, beautiful smiles with preventive treatments. While a tooth extraction may seem like a restorative measure, it can help prevent problems like gum disease, before they cause serious complications.

The Importance of Periodontal Health

Next to tooth decay, gum disease is the most common dental problem Americans face today. Gum disease is also the number one cause of tooth loss for adults over the age of 35. Maintaining proper periodontal (gum) health can help you and your family avoid tooth loss and other secondary issues.

Gum disease has also been linked to systemic or chronic illnesses that affect other areas of your body. In other words, your periodontal health can affect your bodily health and vice versa. Treating, and more importantly, preventing gum disease can decrease your risk of illness like diabetes, pulmonary disease, and cardiovascular disease.

The Cause of Gum Disease

Gum Disease is an infection that affects the periodontal tissues, connective ligaments, and supporting bone. The bacteria found in plaque, a biofilm constantly forming on and around our teeth, is the main cause of gum disease. In response to these bacteria, our immune system produces toxins that also target healthy tissues. These toxins and their harmful effects result in the infection we refer to as gum disease.

Plaque buildup is often caused by improper oral hygiene. Daily brushing and flossing is the best way to eliminate plaque from the surfaces of your teeth. However, this may prove to be difficult for certain people, especially those with misaligned teeth or crowding issues.

Gum Disease and Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt, usually between the ages of 16 and 25. As a result, there may not be enough space left in the jaw to accommodate a new set of teeth. The eruption of wisdom teeth can cause several issues, including gum disease, that drastically affect your oral health.

As they erupt, your wisdom teeth can crowd your molars, become impacted, or cause cysts. If your molars do become crowded, tooth decay and gum disease will likely occur.

When Do We Recommend Extractions

Having wisdom teeth removed before they erupt can help prevent gum disease from affecting your posterior teeth. During an initial consultation, will perform a comprehensive exam to conclude if an extraction is necessary. This usually includes several intraoral x-rays so we can determine if wisdom teeth are present.

Some people are born with four wisdom teeth, while others have none at all. The x-rays also help us determine the location of each tooth and whether or not they will cause any complications. It’s always safer and more cost-effective to prevent problems rather than treat them.

Schedule a Consultation

Preventing gum disease is one of the best things to do for your oral health, which is why we often recommend the preemptive removal of wisdom teeth. To learn more about our services call (608) 960-7650 and schedule a consultation today!