by Jade Balle

Created on: June 09, 2008   Last Updated: November 10, 2008

I was diagnosed with advanced juvenile periodontal disease in my early twenties. People usually don't see serious symptoms or need to undergo treatment until they are well into their 50s or 60s.

The most telling sign of periodontal gum disease is red, swollen, bleeding gums. By the time I finally got the guts to go to the dentist, they had no hope for my teeth. I was referred to a progressive periodontal disease treatment program at a local college.

As a side note, I would suggest that anyone with this problem skip the regular dentist and go straight to a dental school where they focus on new treatments. Don't let a pessimistic dentist tell you that you have to get your teeth pulled! There are ways of dealing with periodontal gum disease without tooth extractions, even in advanced stages of the disease.

The first treatment that they performed on my mouth was a very deep cleaning called a root planing to get rid of any plaque and other debris that was sitting beneath my gums. After that I was placed on natural antibiotics to kill the bacteria that was causing my gums to hurt. Finally, I had to undergo a series of intense periodontal surgeries where my gums were pulled back, all of the bacteria was removed, and the dentist did what was called bone grafting. With bone grafting, the periodontist inserts a special substance that simulates bone and strengthens your teeth below the gums. Four years later after the surgery, my teeth are still strong. It is extemely important to maintain good dental health after the treatment.

Why It's Important to Get Treatment

There have been studies linking diabetes and periodontal disease as well as heart disease and periodontal disease.

People with diabetes are more prone to developing periodontal gum disease. The problem in their mouths results in additional problems with their sugar levels. The relationship between heart disease and periodontal disease is actually reversed - in this case studies have found that people with periodontal disease are more prone to developing problems with their heart. That is why it is so dire that you undergo a periodontal disease treatment plan complete with surgery, bone replacement, cleanings, natural antibiotics, and chlorohexadine mouthwash.

Periodontal disease is mostly hereditary - regardless of why you have it, stay positive about the situation and take care of the problem as soon as possible by visiting a dental school for treatment. Don't delay!

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