This article, part 1 of 2, provides a questionnaire to aid in the identification of people who are at a higher risk of developing gum disease.

1. Periodontic Dentistry in Ft. Lauderdale:
Knowing your Risk, PART 1
This article, part 1 of 2, provides a questionnaire to aid in the identification of people who are
at a higher risk of developing gum disease.
Periodontic dentistry in Ft. Lauderdale is the dental field dedicated to the elimination of
disease-causing bacteria in the oral cavity, with special emphasis upon the health of the soft
tissues surrounding the teeth; the gums. Gum disease is a pervasive problem in the United
States in spite of all our advanced technology and sophisticated array of medical
treatments. With studies constantly revealing the intimate relationships between this
terrible oral affliction and life-threatening diseases - including cardiovascular disease,
respiratory disease, cancer and diabetes – now more than ever it is fundamental that we
understand what puts our oral and general health at risk. Periodontic dentistry in Ft.
Lauderdale generally makes use of a few indicators in the determining of a patient’s risk of
gum disease (www.drklevine.com). In this blog, part 1 of 2, we provide a questionnaire
detailing some of these factors. Refer to part 2 to find out if you are a high risk candidate.
Periodontic Dentistry in Ft. Lauderdale: Assessing Your Risk
1. How old are you?
- Less than 40 years old: 0 points
- Less than 60 years old: 1 point
- More than 60 years old: 2 points
According to research released by periodontic dentistry in Ft. Lauderdale, age plays an
important role in determining the risk for the development of gum disease. People in their
late adulthood are especially vulnerable.
2. Do your gums frequently bleed when you brush, floss or eat certain foods?
- Yes: 1 point
- No: 0 points
While bleeding gums can be caused by brushing too hard, they may also indicate the
presence of a chronic and acute bacterial infection of the soft tissues surrounding the teeth.

2. If you have tried brushing softly and they continue to bleed, then you should seek the
attention of a practicing professional in the field of periodontic dentistry in Ft. Lauderdale.
3. Do you smoke or chew tobacco?
- Yes: 2 points
- No: 0 points
Tobacco use is a leading cause of gum disease and can markedly increase your risk factor,
even if you brush and floss regularly.
4. Do your teeth feel loose?
- Yes: 2 point
- No: 0 points
According to periodontic dentistry in Ft. Lauderdale, gum disease migrates deep down into
the gingival sulci (or tooth sockets) and destroys the fibers, ligaments and supporting bone
tissue that hold your teeth in place. Loose teeth are a good indicator of an unchecked
bacterial infection that has become acute and requires prompt treatment.
5. Are your gums constantly inflamed and swollen or have they receded from your
teeth making them look longer?
- Yes: 2 points
- No: 0 points
Swollen or receding gums are another important indicator of periodontal disease and
should not be ignored. While there are other oral conditions that can lead to either of these,
it is important that you seek immediate attention from a specialist in periodontic dentistry
in Ft. Lauderdale to be certain (www.drklevine.com).
Periodontic Dentistry in Ft. Lauderdale: Stay Tuned
To determine your risk of gum disease, answer the remaining five questions in our next
blog…