Periodontal Care
STAGES OF GUM DISEASE
Gingivitis, Periodontitis, and Advanced Periodontitis
Gum disease is caused by oral bacteria building up between your teeth and gums. This bacteria slowly attacks the gum tissue and begins to infect and destroy it. The first stage of periodontal disease is called “gingivitis”, and during this stage, the damage to your teeth and gums is typically reversible with proper care and oral hygiene.
“Periodontitis” is the second stage of gum disease. At this stage, some permanent damage may have been done to your teeth and gums, but the progression of the disease can still be halted. “Advanced periodontitis” is the final stage of the disease. Once the disease progresses to this point, you may require invasive oral surgery to restore your dental health, such as extraction and tooth replacement with dentures or implants.
RECOGNIZING THE SYMPTOMS
Of Periodontal Disease
Gum disease has a number of easily recognizable signs and symptoms. Gingivitis, the earliest stage of the disease, is usually characterized by sensitive, puffy, and red or dark gums. Your mouth may bleed while brushing, and you may also suffer from persistent bad breath (halitosis). As your symptoms get worse, you may notice issues like a bad taste in your mouth, lengthening of the teeth (recession of the gums), sensitivity to pressure when chewing, and a foul taste in your mouth. In cases of advanced periodontitis, you may notice that your teeth are loose, or your teeth may even begin to fall out because their roots are decaying and dying.
EFFECTS OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE
Gum Disease & Your Overall Health
There is evidence that gum disease can have a significant effect on your overall, systemic health. Inflammation may travel from your gums through the small blood vessels in your mouth and spread throughout your body, increasing the risk of serious health issues like heart attack and stroke. Proper oral care and periodontal treatment are required to eliminate the disease and safeguard your overall health.
TREATING GUM DISEASE
With Deep Cleanings
Deep cleanings, also called “scaling and root planing”, are typically the first step in the treatment of gingivitis and gum disease. Using specialized dental tools, one of our dentists will remove plaque and bacteria from between your gums and teeth. Then, the roots of your teeth will be smoothed to help remove bacteria and prevent the formation of bacteria pockets, which attack and destroy the root of your tooth. If you notice signs and symptoms of gum disease, schedule your appointment with us today to get the care you need.
How often will I need to see a dentist?
You will need to see your dentist more often than other people. The pockets and other issues from your gum disease will make it harder for you to clean plaque from your teeth. It is recommended to see your dentist at least four times a year for cleaning.
How many people have gum problems?
Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it! Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages.
How often do I need to brush?
It only takes twenty four hours for plaque that is not removed from your teeth to turn into tartar! Daily home cleaning helps control plaque and tartar formation, but those hard to reach areas will always need special attention.