Peridontal Disease

Peridontal disease destroys the tissues anchoring the teeth. Early studies suggested that older populations were at greater risk for periodontal disease (Marshall-Day et al, 1955; and Shei et al, 1959). However, more recently it has been demonstrated that a patient's oral hygiene status is of more significance than chronological age in the development of periodontal disease (Abdellatif & Burt, 1987). Therefore, prevention by adequate brushing and flossing of teeth and gums is the key to preventing this condition.

Periodontal disease in the aging population is not due to aging itself, but rather to other influencing factors such as certain chronic conditions (e.g. diabetes, osteopenia associated with estrogen deficiency), health behaviors (e.g., smoking, stress and coping habits) and poor oral hygiene. Other risk factors for peridontal disease include being a male, increasing age, and family history (Jenco, 1996). To learn more about Peridontal Disease, please visit the following American Dental Association website.