GUM DISEASE
Gum disease is one of the most common oral health issues patients face. It is also one of the easiest to treat (if caught in its early phase). To ensure your gum disease is treated before it advances, it’s very important to schedule regular cleanings and checkups. These visits will help to remove the harmful bacteria that leads to disease, while also catching any oral health issues early on so they can be treated sooner rather than later.
WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?
Gum disease (also known as “periodontal disease”) is an infection of the gums that causes inflammation and leads to a variety of different oral health issues. If the disease progresses enough, it can cause gum recession and even the loss of teeth.
SIGNS OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE
There are certain symptoms that you’ll want to look for in order to determine if you have gum disease. Some of these symptoms include:
- Red Gums
- Swollen Gums
- Sensitive Gums
- Bad Breath
- Bleeding Gums
- Receding Gumline
- Loose Teeth
Some of these symptoms are minor and can go unnoticed for a period of time before they become bad enough. Other signs of gum disease—such as loose teeth—are very noticeable and are signs of more advanced gum disease. If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, make sure to set an appointment with your dentist. They will take a look at your gums and determine whether or not you have gum disease, and what the best treatment methods are for whatever stage your gum disease is at.
STAGES OF GUM DISEASE
Periodontal disease is a progressive illness and will become worse over time. The treatment that a patient will receive will depend on what stage of gum disease they are at and how badly their gums and bone tissue have been damaged. Below are three stages of gum disease, and what to expect at each stage:
GINGIVITIS
The earliest and most treatable stage of gum disease is gingivitis. At this stage, the symptoms are very minor and can be easily reversed. Generally, patients with gingivitis will notice red and swollen gums, bleeding (especially while brushing), and bad breath. No permanent damage has occurred at this stage.
PERIODONTITIS
Once gum disease progresses to the periodontitis stage, it becomes more serious. There may be permanent damage that cannot be reversed. A patient’s gums may start receding, and the risk of bone loss becomes much higher.
ADVANCED PERIODONTITIS
At this stage, the gum disease has caused permanent, irreparable damage. The gums have receded, and the bone tissue loss is significant. Teeth are loose and may have already begun falling out. Your dentist will do their best to save your teeth and gums, but there will be some damage that they can’t fix.
PREVENTION
The easiest way to address gum disease is to avoid it entirely. In order to do so, there are a few steps you can take.
- Brush, floss, and rinse twice a day, every day
- Visit your dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup
- Schedule an appointment with your dentist if you notice any oral health issues between visits
- Cut down on sugary foods
During your regular visits, your dentist will perform a thorough cleaning and examination. This may include X-rays. From there, your dentist will determine if you are suffering from gum disease, tooth decay, or any other issues.
With proper oral maintenance and trips to the dentist, gum disease can be prevented or caught early and treated with ease.
Testimonials
What our patients
have to say
Everyone was very friendly and courteous from the receptionist, Sara and Dr Young
I have been seeing Dr. Leal since I was a child and have never had a negative experience here. Ki ...
Kind, compassionate, prompt care. Would recommend to anyone.