Periodontal Treatment
Periodontal Treatment
Stop Gum Disease In Its Tracks
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because gum disease is usually painless, you may not know you have it. Also referred to as periodontal disease, gum disease is caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that is constantly forming on our teeth.
Advanced gum disease, called periodontitis, affects almost half of Americans over the age of 30, according to a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As common as the condition is, tooth loss is often the unfortunate outcome when left untreated. But today, with so many successful treatment options available for advanced periodontal disease, losing teeth doesn't have to be your next step with an unhealthy gumline.
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What Causes Gum Disease
Hormonal Changes
Changes such as those occurring during pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and monthly menstruation, make gums more sensitive, which makes it easier for gingivitis to develop.
Medications
Medications can affect oral health, because some lessen the flow of saliva, which has a protective effect on teeth and gums.
Bad Habits
Bad habits such as smoking make it harder for gum tissue to repair itself.
Different Stages of Gum Disease
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Advanced gum disease is called periodontitis. Chronic periodontitis affects 47.2% of adults over 30 in the United States. It can lead to the loss of tissue and bone that support the teeth and it may become more severe over time. If it does, your teeth will feel loose and start moving around in your mouth. This is the most common form of periodontitis in adults but can occur at any age. It usually gets worse slowly, but there can be periods of rapid progression.
Aggressive periodontitis is a highly destructive form of periodontal disease that occurs in patients who are otherwise healthy. Common features include rapid loss of tissue and bone and may occur in some areas of the mouth, or in the entire mouth.
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Early Warning Signs That Need Attention
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Gums that bleed easily
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Red, swollen tender gums
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Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
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Persistent bad breath or bad taste
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Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
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Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
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Any change in the fit of partial dentures
It is possible to have gum disease and have no warning signs. That is one reason why regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are very important. Treatment methods depend upon the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed. Good dental care at home is essential to help keep periodontal disease from becoming more serious or recurring. Remember: You don’t have to lose teeth to gum disease. Brush your teeth twice a day, clean between your teeth daily, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular dental visits for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
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See your dentist if you suspect you have gum disease because the sooner you treat it the better. The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. If you have gingivitis, your gums may become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is still reversible and can usually be eliminated by a professional cleaning at your dental office, followed by daily brushing and flossing.