JUVENILE GUM DISEASE CAUSES
TOOTH LOSS IN YOUTH 10-19
A little-known condition is being studied by dental researchers at the University of Florida College of Dentistry and Virginia Commonwealth University: gum disease among youngsters 10 to 19 years of age. Called juvenile periodontitis, this unusual type of gum disease progresses much more rapidly than the adult form, often taking its deadly toll on the tooth in less than one year.
Thought to be caused by a bacteria, the disease is often "silent" -- no bleeding, visible gum inflammation or pain until damage is well advanced. The disease can cause rapid loss of jaw bone and connective tissues that support the teeth, resulting in loosened and lost teeth.
X-rays can detect the disease at early stages. Studies show that it affects more girls than boys, more blacks than whites and it often runs in families. Genetics plays a part in this.
A variety of treatments are used against the disease including daily brushing and flossing by the patient. Scaling and planing the tooth roots helps counter the bacteria. A two-week treatment with an antibiotic is coming into increasing use. In advanced cases, synthetic bone or bits of human bone used in conjunction with protective membranes have shown promise in stimulating the growth of new bone around loose teeth.
The keys to prevention and early detection of this disease are regular dental examinations and necessary x-rays of the root areas where this bone-attacking disease occurs.