Dr. Gregory F. Bell, DDS: Bright Smiles Can Hide Underlying Periodontal Disease

PHILADELPHIA, PA, February 01, 2013 (Press-News.org) Today's culture tends to associate straight, white teeth with dental health. This is, as Dr. Gregory F. Bell DDS explains, a connotation that can be somewhat misleading. An article posted by HealthNewsDigest.com explains that periodontal disease, or gum disease, can lurk beneath a seemingly healthy smile.

The article describes periodontal disease as being "a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth." As such, it can cause a great deal of damage if left untreated.

According to the article, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, performed a study that revealed that approximately half of Americans who are 30 years of age and older have periodontal disease. Nancy L. Newhouse, DDS, MS, and President of the American Academy of Periodontology, explains that this form of disease can often go overlooked.

"Periodontal disease is insidious," asserts Dr. Newhouse. "Many people don't even know they have a problem until it turns into a severe case. Just because your teeth and gums don't hurt, doesn't mean your mouth is healthy."

Dr. Bell reiterates the fact that periodontal disease is something that can easily be overlooked by patients; however, proper examinations during dental appointments can detect the condition. "A comprehensive periodontal examination can detect disease even when a patient has a seemingly nice smile," explains Dr. Gregory F. Bell, DDS. "Most periodontal disease is painless, and damage from the pocketing that this disease creates may not be visible to the patient until the bone loss associated with the illness becomes advanced. At this point, the teeth themselves are endangered."

Dr. Bell encourages individuals to ensure that their dentists check for periodontal disease during bi-annual cleanings and other examinations. By catching the condition early, patients can face much easier recovery and treatment options than if the disease is able to take deeper root. Dr. Bell recommends that patients choose a primary dental provider who understands the importance of such examinations and, due to this insight, provides comprehensive care to each and every individual who sits in their chair. By doing so, patients can entrust their dental health into the hands of a dentist who has their best interest in mind.

ABOUT:

Dr. Gregory F. Bell DDS is a periodontal specialist who has served his patients through dental procedures since 1976. With degrees from the University of Wyoming and University of Minnesota, Dr. Gregory F. Bell, DDS has succeeded in reaching very high educational goals. In addition to receiving two bachelor of science degrees, a doctor of dental surgery degree, and a master of science in dentistry, Dr. Gregory F. Bell, DDS performed his residency at Mayo Graduate School of Medicine. Since starting his practice in the dental field, Dr. Bell has helped numerous patients in enhancing their dental health and overall wellbeing. He is additionally a sincere advocate for patient education.

Website: http://drgregoryfbelldds.com