CHICAGO – September 14, 2001 – Nearly 65 percent of periodontists report that they believe nutrition plays a major role in the status of their patients’ periodontal health, according to a poll conducted recently on the American Academy of Periodontology’s (AAP) Web site. And to improve oral health, about three out of four periodontists have recommended consuming more vitamin C to patients.

• Detailed Results of Nutrition Survey

More than half of the 135 periodontists polled report that either they or their staffs talk to patients on a regular basis about the role of good nutrition in maintaining good oral health. “I tell them that a well balanced diet is important for the body and subsequently the mouth’s health,” said one responding periodontist. “I inform my patients that vitamin C is important for tissue health and calcium is important for bone health.”

The majority of periodontists recommend calcium supplements and multivitamins for patients who are not getting adequate amounts from their diet. Many patients seem to listen to this advice. In a separate poll of consumers visiting the AAP’s Web site, nearly 57 percent of 477 respondents said they have tried improving their diet to help improve periodontal health.

“Research has proven that people who consume inadequate amounts of calcium and vitamin C have higher rates of periodontal disease,” said Michael McGuire, D.D.S., president of the AAP. “However, many other nutrients likely play a role in maintaining good periodontal health too.”

Conversely, some foods are best avoided to maintain good periodontal health. The top culprit chosen by periodontists was popcorn, because the husks can get caught in between the teeth and gums and cause abscesses.

A referral to a periodontist in your area and free brochure samples are available by calling 800-FLOSS-EM or visiting the AAP’s Web site at www.perio.org.

About the AAP

The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) is the professional organization for periodontists—specialists in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists are also dentistry’s experts in the treatment of oral inflammation. They receive three additional years of specialized training following dental school, and periodontics is one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. The AAP has 8,000 members worldwide.

CHICAGO—February 13, 2007—Eliminating dental plaque may be an important step in preventing periodontitis and coronary artery disease according to a new study published in this month’s issue of the Journal of Periodontology. Study Abstract

Researchers examined 20 individuals with chronic periodontitis. In 13 of the 20 patients, bacterial pathogens most frequently found in severe chronic periodontitis were also found in atherosclerotic plaque of coronary vessels. In 10 cases, those species of bacteria were also present in atherosclerotic plaque and in subgingival plaque”. (Atherosclerosis is a multistage process set in motion when cells lining the arteries are damaged as a result of high blood pressure, smoking, toxic substances and other agents.)

“We found that patients with periodontal pathogens detected in atherosclerotic plaque had four millimeters or greater of deep periodontal pockets and a significantly higher bleeding index,” said study author Dr. Maciej Zaremba. “This supports the possibility that bacteria associated with periodontitis can permeate into coronary vessels.”

“Since periodontal and cardiovascular diseases have several common risk factors, more studies are needed to evaluate the strength of association between the two diseases,” said Dr. Preston D. Miller, DDS, and AAP president. “It is very important for people to talk to their dentist or periodontist about their periodontal health and their at-home oral hygiene routine to prevent periodontal disease and maybe even coronary artery disease.”

According to the American Heart Association, coronary heart disease is the number one single cause of death in the United States. Knowledge of the risk factors and possible links to coronary heart disease, such as periodontal disease is the first step towards preventing it. To find out if you are at risk for periodontal disease, please visit the AAP’s Web site and take a free risk assessment test.

A referral to a periodontist in your area and free brochure samples including ones titled Periodontal Diseases: What You Need to Know and Ask Your Periodontist about Periodontal Disease and Heart Disease are available by calling 800-FLOSS-EM or visiting the AAP’s Web site at www.perio.org.

About the AAP

The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) is the professional organization for periodontists—specialists in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists are also dentistry’s experts in the treatment of oral inflammation. They receive three additional years of specialized training following dental school, and periodontics is one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. The AAP has 8,000 members worldwide.

CHICAGO—February 6, 2008—Consumers have long known that including dairy in their diets can help maintain healthy bones and even help promote weight loss. However, a recent study published in the January issue of the Journal of Periodontology, the official publication of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), demonstrated that routine intake of dairy products may also help promote periodontal health. The study analyzed the periodontal health of 942 subjects and determined that those who regularly consumed dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt had a lower instance of gum disease. Study Abstract *

“Research has suggested that periodontal disease may affect overall systemic health,” said study author Dr. Yoshihiro Shimazaki of Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan. “This study reinforces what much of the public already knows – the importance of dairy in helping achieve a healthy lifestyle, including a healthy mouth.”

Study participants aged 40 through 79 were examined on two periodontal parameters that can indicate gum disease, periodontal pocket depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL) of gum tissue. Researchers observed that subjects that consumed 55 or more grams of products containing lactic acid each day had a significantly lower prevalence of deep PD and severe CAL, therefore demonstrating a lower instance of periodontal disease.

Periodontal, or gum, disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Periodontal disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults and has been connected to the development of heart disease and increased risk of stroke, and can contribute to complications from diabetes, respiratory disease or osteoporosis.

“Millions of adults already suffer from periodontal disease,” says Dr. Susan Karabin, DDS, President of the AAP. “By regularly consuming dairy products such as cheese and milk, something many people do each day, the risk of developing gum disease may decrease. These findings are important since maintaining healthy gums is a critical component to maintaining a healthy body.”

To find a periodontist or to learn if you are at risk for periodontal diseases, take the Academy’s risk assessment test. You can also get free brochure samples online at www.perio.org, or by calling toll-free (800) FLOSS-EM (800/356-7736).

CHICAGO—November 27, 2007—A new study in the November issue of the Journal of Periodontology (JOP) found that prevention of periodontal diseases may lead to savings on not only dental costs, but also medical care costs. Periodontal (gum) diseases have been linked to systemic health conditions including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory problems.

The JOP study, conducted in Japan, examined the effect of periodontal diseases on medical and dental costs in 4,285 patients over a 3.5-year time span. The patients were between the ages of 40-59. Researchers found that cumulative health care costs were 21% higher for those patients with severe periodontal disease than those with no periodontal disease. Severe periodontal disease (periodontitis) involves bone loss and diminished attachment around the teeth.

“While previous studies have evaluated the potential link between periodontal diseases and other systemic conditions, this study provides an interesting analysis of total health care costs and the financial impact of having periodontal diseases,” explained JOP editor Kenneth Kornman, DDS. “The research suggests that patients with sever periodontal diseases incur higher overall health care expenses as compared to those patients with no periodontal disease. Prevention of periodontal disease may be very important in overall health, and this study suggests that it may also indirectly translate into lower total health care costs.”

“Everyone is looking for ways to reduce health care costs,” said Susan Karabin, DDS, President of the American Academy of Periodontology, “especially those who are in an age category where they are more susceptible to periodontal diseases. Because of the relationship between the mouth and the rest of the body, treating periodontal disease may be one simple way to decrease total health care costs. If caught early, periodontal diseases can be treated using simple non-surgical techniques which can restore your mouth to a healthy state.”

To find out if you are at risk for periodontal diseases, please visit the AAP’s Web site and take a free risk assessment test. A referral to a periodontist in your area and brochure samples are available by calling 800-FLOSS-EM or visiting the AAP’s Web site at www.perio.org.

About the AAP

The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) is the professional organization for periodontists—specialists in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists are also dentistry’s experts in the treatment of oral inflammation. They receive three additional years of specialized training following dental school, and periodontics is one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. The AAP has 8,000 members worldwide.

CHICAGO – December 23, 2002 – Bad breath is one of the most embarrassing and most annoying problems to have. If not treated properly, beastly breath could interfere with your work life and social life, not to mention your sex life.

“One of the most common misconceptions is that halitosis is caused by the foods you eat,” said Gordon Douglass, D.D.S., president of the American Academy of Periodontology. “Actually, bad breath can be caused by the sulfur compounds released from our digestive process.”

Anaerobic bacteria that live within the surface of the tongue and throat break down proteins in food, blood and diseased oral tissue. When these bacteria come in contact with certain amino acids in proteins, sulfur compounds are released from the back of the tongue and throat causing your yuck mouth.

While many manufacturers promote home remedies to tame the beast, they only mask the problem or have the potential to cause more harm. The only way to rid yourself of the beastly breath is to find its source.

“The only full-proof way of eliminating halitosis is to see your periodontist or dentist to determine the cause,” said Douglass. “There could be many factors at play, such as gum disease, a dry mouth or certain medical conditions.” He added, “Many home remedies exacerbate the problem or are just temporary fixes. You should see a specialist to determine the most effective treatment.”

The American Academy of Periodontology asked its members for the most ineffective home remedies their patients have used to tackle yuck mouths.

1. Excessive use of mouthwash. Produces sloughy, stinky tissue that is worse than what your breath is already like.
2. Breath mints. A sweet smelling mouth doesn’t mean a healthy mouth. Long-lasting sugar candies subject teeth to acid attacks, increasing your risk for cavities.
3. Chewing gum. Chewing gum can increase salivary flow, but only masks bad breath. Try drinking water throughout the day instead.
4. Mint chew tobacco. Smokeless tobacco causes gums to recede and increases the chance of losing the bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place, and more importantly, causes oral cancer.
5. Infomercial Items. Only use items that have the ADA Seal of Approval. Unapproved items could do more harm than good.
6. Vodka martinis or sour mash whiskey. Alcohol may further the problem by making your mouth dry, whereby saliva is unable to remove oral bacteria.
7. Brushing with cleanser. Many chemicals used for household cleaning are poisonous and should not be consumed – this is one of them.
8. Intestinal cleansing methods. Bad breath does not originate from the stomach. Actually, anaerobic bacteria in your mouth produce smelly sulfur compounds that cause bad breath.
9. Rinsing with kerosene. Talk about putting your mouth on fire!
10. Tongue piercing. Anything that allows you to harbor more bacteria on your tongue, like tongue jewelry, increases your chance of bad breath.

A referral to a periodontist in your area and free brochure samples are available by calling 800-FLOSS-EM or visiting the AAP’s Web site at www.perio.org.

About the AAP

The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) is the professional organization for

CHICAGO – December 23, 2002 – Good at-home oral hygiene is recommended by the American Academy of Periodontology to ensure a beautiful smile, and prevent periodontal disease, which is the major cause of tooth loss in adults.

“It’s important to practice a meticulous at-home oral care routine of daily brushing and flossing to ensure your teeth will last a lifetime,” said Gordon Douglass, D.D.S., and president of the American Academy of Periodontology. “Although periodontal disease can’t always be avoided, proper oral hygiene is the best means of prevention.”

The American Academy of Periodontology challenges the public to quit making excuses for not brushing and flossing and to start off the New Year by incorporating a daily routine of brushing and flossing. By doing this, you will reap the rewards for years to come.

1. My hands are too big and I have no dexterity – for people with dexterity problems, power floss holders may be useful.
2. The floss pushes the food down further into the pocket – floss cleans about 30 percent of the tooth’s surfaces, and its primary function is to remove the invisible film of bacteria that constantly forms between the teeth, causing plaque.
3. My gums bleed – in the mildest form of periodontal disease called gingivitis, gums redden, swell and bleed easily. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene and can be reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care.
4. I get my teeth professionally cleaned twice a year, so I don’t have to brush and floss – If plaque is not removed, it can turn into a hard substance called calculus/tartar in less than two days. It’s so hard that it can only be removed by a professional cleaning. Daily cleaning will help minimize calculus formation.
5. It takes too long – Thorough brushing and flossing take about ten minutes. This is less time than shaving or applying make-up.
6. It gets in the way of my sex life – research suggests periodontal disease can pass through saliva. This means that common contact of saliva from kissing may put your loved ones at an increased risk for contracting periodontal disease.
7. Losing teeth is part of aging – this is definitely not true. More people are keeping their natural teeth longer with brushing and flossing. And, make sure that you’re using the right equipment. The AAP recommends a soft-bristled toothbrush that doesn’t have bent or frayed bristles. Brush your teeth at a 45-degree angle in a gentle circular motion several times using short, gentle strokes. More about keeping a healthy smile for life
8. My teeth are too tight for the floss – people with tight spaces between their teeth may prefer a polymer floss that’s been ADA approved.
9. I’m afraid of damaging my gums when I floss – that’s why technique is so important. When flossing, gently insert the floss between the teeth using a back-and-forth motion, guiding the flossing with your forefingers. Guide the floss to the gumline and curve the floss into a C-shape. Slide it into the space between the gum and tooth until you feel light resistance. Repeat this process between every tooth and don’t forget the back sides of your teeth.
10. I went hiking and forgot to bring floss – One possibility for people without access to floss may be to chew on sticks. Dental researchers have studied the periodontal status of Sudanese populations who use Miswak chewing sticks and found that their periodontal health status was comparable to Sudanese toothbrush users.

A referral to a periodontist in your area and free brochure samples including one titled How to Brush and Floss are available by calling 800-FLOSS-EM or visiting the AAP’s Web site at www.perio.org.

About the AAP

The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) is the professional organization for periodontists—specialists in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists are also dentistry’s experts in the treatment of oral inflammation. They receive three additional years of specialized training following dental school, and periodontics is one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. The AAP has 8,000 members worldwide.

CHICAGO–March 9, 1999–University of Chicago internist and anesthesiologist Dr. Michael Roizen is making headlines with his RealAge program, which he designed to provide people with a scientifically valid age reduction plan.

You may have read about it, seen him on “Oprah” or “20/20″ or even bought his book. And maybe you were surprised that flossing your teeth ranks right up there with taking your vitamins, quitting smoking and reducing stress as one of the top five things you can do to reduce your “RealAge.” In fact, keeping your teeth and gums healthy allows you to add 6.4 years to your life, according to Roizen’s plan.

“It makes sense,” says Dr. Robert Schoor, president of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). “Periodontal (gum) disease is a bacterial infection of the gums, and that bacteria can travel into the bloodstream and other parts of the body, putting a person’s health at risk.”

Recent research has found that periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, diabetes, respiratory diseases and premature, underweight births.

If you want to keep your teeth and gums healthy, and take care of the rest of your body at the same time, it’s not quite as simple as regular flossing. The AAP offers 10 suggestions to help you ensure good oral health:

• Use the right equipment. A soft-bristled toothbrush allows you to reach every surface of each tooth. If the bristles on your toothbrush are bent or frayed, buy a new one. Ask your dentist or periodontist to help you decide which among the wide variety of oral care products on the market may be most helpful for you.
• Choose a toothpaste with fluoride. In conjunction with brushing and flossing, fluoride products can reduce tooth decay by as much as 40 percent.
• Brush properly. To clean the outside surfaces of all your teeth, position the brush at a 45-degree angle where your gums and teeth meet. Gently move the brush in a circular motion several times using short, gentle strokes. To clean the inside surfaces of the upper and lower front teeth, hold the brush vertically. Make several gentle back-and-forth strokes over each tooth and its surrounding gum tissue. To clean the biting surfaces of your teeth, use short, gentle strokes. Spend at least two-and-a-half minutes brushing. This may not sound like much, but keep in mind it is about the same amount of time as one song or five commercials if you brush with the radio or TV on.
• Floss properly. Gently insert floss between the teeth, using a back-and-forth motion. Do not force the floss or snap it into place. Guide the floss to the gumline. Curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth. Slide it into the space between the gum and tooth until you feel slight resistance. Using both hands, move the floss up and down on the side of one tooth. Remember that there are two tooth surfaces that need to be cleaned in each space, so repeat this technique on each side.
• Find out if your teeth are free of plaque. Use a disclosing tablet or solution, available at your local drugstore. Chew the tablet until it dissolves. Swish vigorously and empty your mouth. Rinse with water. Then look in a mirror. The stains will indicate where plaque is still present.
• Stop using tobacco products. In addition to other serious illness linked with smoking, tobacco users are at increased risk for periodontal disease.
• Watch for signs of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is often silent, meaning you may not have symptoms until its very advanced stages. However, people with periodontal disease may experience:
  • Bleeding gums during brushing
  • Red, swollen or tender gums
  • Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Pus between the teeth and gums
  • Loose or separating teeth
  • A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
  • A change in the fit of your dentures
• Be aware of habits such as teeth grinding, which can put excess force on the supporting tissues of the teeth and speed up the rate at which these tissues are destroyed. You may need to have a dental professional fit you with a mouth guard to wear while sleeping if you grind your teeth at night.
• Tell your dental professional about any medications you are taking, as some drugs such as oral contraceptives, antidepressants and certain heart medicines can affect oral health.
• See your dentist and periodontist regularly. Regular professional cleanings will remove tartar in places that your toothbrush and floss have missed. Regular periodontal appointments are an important part of your oral hygiene program to prevent gum disease and keep your teeth for a lifetime.

A referral to a periodontist in your area and free brochure samples including one titled How to Brush and Floss are available by calling 800-FLOSS-EM or visiting the AAP’s Web site at www.perio.org.

The American Academy of Periodontology is an 8,000-member association of dental professionals specializing in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth and in the placement and maintenance of dental implants. Periodontics is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association.

For more information, contact the AAP Public Affairs Department at 312/573-3243 or 312/573-3242.

CHICAGO – January 14, 2000 – Researchers suggest periodontal disease can pass through saliva. This means that the common contact of saliva in families may put children and couples at risk for contracting the periodontal disease of another family member.

“If one family member has periodontal disease, all family members should see a dental professional for a periodontal screening,” said Jack Caton, D.D.S., M.S., president of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). “Parents need to be advised that periodontal disease is not just an adult health problem.”

In fact, studies indicate that gingivitis is nearly a universal finding in children and adolescents. Gingivitis is the first level of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a bacterial gum infection that progresses over time and can become more advanced with age. More about protecting children’s oral health

To ensure healthy teeth as an adult, good oral health habits should be established as a child. “Parents can encourage good at-home oral health habits in children,” said Caton. “For example, parents may want to reward children with visits from the tooth fairy not just when a tooth is lost, but also when a child receives a clean bill of health from the dentist.”

Evidence shows that periodontal disease may increase during adolescence due to lack of motivation to practice oral hygiene. “Children who maintain good oral health habits through the teen years are more likely to continue brushing and flossing than children who were not taught proper oral care,” said Caton.

Periodontal disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. In addition, research has linked it to more serious health threats such as diabetes, cardiovascular and respiratory disease, and pre-term low-birthweight babies.

“It is important that family members don’t forget the basics,” added Caton. “Replace toothbrushes every few months or when the bristles begin to look frayed. Floss daily to break up the bacterial colonies between teeth that can cause periodontal disease. And, seek dental care for professional cleanings, as well as screenings for periodontal disease.”

A referral to a periodontist in your area and free brochure samples are available by calling 800-FLOSS-EM or visiting the AAP’s Web site at www.perio.org.

About the AAP

The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) is the professional organization for periodontists—specialists in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists are also dentistry’s experts in the treatment of oral inflammation. They receive three additional years of specialized training following dental school, and periodontics is one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. The AAP has 8,000 members worldwide.

CHICAGO – June 20, 2002 – A case report published in the June issue of the Journal of Periodontology provides another reason why abnormalities in the mouth such as swollen or bleeding gums and oral sores should be taken seriously. Study Abstract *

“We have been hearing more about various health concerns lately, but one important area that is often overlooked is the mouth,” said Kenneth Bueltmann, D.D.S., president of the American Academy of Periodontology. “It is important for patients to have regular oral exams to not only maintain oral health, but to identify possible risks for serious medical conditions.”

The 2000 Surgeon General’s Oral Health Report recommends a thorough oral examination to detect signs of nutritional deficiencies as well as a number of systemic diseases, including microbial infections, immune disorders, injuries and some cancers.

The case report published in the Journal of Periodontology describes how excessive swollen gums, fatigue and weight loss experienced by a 53-year-old man led to the diagnosis of acute myelomonocytic leukemia. The patient consulted his dentist regarding abrupt gingival inflammation throughout the mouth. The dentist referred him to a periodontist who took a biopsy, which revealed leukemia. Blood tests confirmed the findings and chemotherapy treatment was administered.

“Oral health professionals, especially periodontists, should be aware that enlarged gums may represent an initial manifestation of an underlying systemic disease, such as leukemia or diabetes, and they should collaborate with health providers for diagnosis,” said Dr. John Fantasia, chief, division of oral pathology, department of dental medicine at the Long Island Jewish Medical Center.

He continued, “In fact, many patients see their dentist more often than their physician; thus, oral health professionals should conduct a thorough examination of the mouth to identify potential abnormalities.”

The Surgeon General’s report further reiterates that oral health means much more than healthy teeth. It means being free of periodontal diseases, chronic oral-facial pain conditions, oral and throat cancers, as well as many other diseases and disorders that affect the mouth area.

“It is important not to become alarmed by every change in the way your gums look or feel in light of this information,” said Bueltmann. “We just want people to realize that oral health shouldn’t be taken for granted.”

He continued, “Gum swelling is quite common and may involve one area of the gums surrounding a tooth or the entire gums in the mouth. In addition, there are many causes of swollen gums that could be as minor as hypersensitivity to chewing gum, reactions to prescription medications or a popcorn kernel logged into the gums.”

One of the most common reasons for swollen, bleeding gums is gingivitis, the mildest form of periodontal disease where gums become red, swell and bleed easily with brushing or flossing due to plaque buildup. There is usually little or no discomfort at this stage, and it is reversible with professional cleaning and good oral home care. Research shows that nearly one in three U.S. adults aged 30 to 54 have this or a more serious form of periodontal disease. However, gum swelling could also be a way your mouth is telling you that something is amiss with your health. Other reasons for swollen, bleeding gums could be more serious conditions such as leukemia or diabetes.

“The most important message this tells us is that if you experience swollen gums, bleeding upon brushing or flossing, or any other abnormal symptoms in your mouth, you should call your dentist or periodontist for a complete examination sooner rather than later,” said Bueltmann.

A referral to a periodontist in your area and free brochure samples are available by calling 800-FLOSS-EM or visiting the AAP’s Web site at www.perio.org.

About the AAP

The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) is the professional organization for periodontists—specialists in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists are also dentistry’s experts in the treatment of oral inflammation. They receive three additional years of specialized training following dental school, and periodontics is one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. The AAP has 8,000 members worldwide.

CHICAGO – August 15, 2000 – Oral health is often a good indicator of what is happening in the rest of the body. Therefore, a visit to a periodontist may benefit more than an older person’s gums.

According to a recent online poll about patients over age 60 conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), periodontists often refer their patients to medical doctors for serious health problems. Of the 173 periodontists polled, 78 percent said they have referred patients to medical doctors to evaluate for diabetes, 66 percent have referred patients for a cardiovascular disease evaluation and 21 percent for osteoporosis based on their exam of the patient. One respondent wrote in that if he notices a skin lesion on the face or neck he notes it and encourages the patient to see a dermatologist for a skin evaluation.

“It is good to see that so many periodontists are referring their patients to physicians when patients exhibit conditions consistent with diabetes or cardiovascular disease,” said Jack Caton, D.D.S., M.S., president of the AAP.

Periodontists report more than half of older patients do not understand taking certain medications may affect the health of their mouth. For example, many medications, including diuretics, may reduce salivary flow. Dry mouth can cause increased plaque buildup, which increases the risk for periodontal disease. In addition, some calcium channel blockers may cause the gums to grow over the teeth. “I recommend older patients take a list of medications they are taking with them to their periodontists,” said Caton.

The majority of periodontists reported that most of their older patients believe they can keep their natural teeth for a lifetime. They also said their older patients are concerned with the aesthetic look of their smile. However, their older patients are less likely than younger patients are to have cosmetic periodontal surgery.

A referral to a periodontist in your area and free brochure samples are available by calling 800-FLOSS-EM or visiting the AAP’s Web site at www.perio.org.

About the AAP

The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) is the professional organization for periodontists—specialists in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists are also dentistry’s experts in the treatment of oral inflammation. They receive three additional years of specialized training following dental school, and periodontics is one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. The AAP has 8,000 members worldwide.