PERIODONTAL (GUM) DISEASE
What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?
Periodontal disease, often referred to as gum disease, occurs when the gums becoming infected by bacteria and begin to pull away from the teeth. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth and underlying bone loss in adults over the age of 30. In fact, almost half of all adults have some form of gum disease. Treatment is essential for stopping the progression of the disease and saving your smile.
What are the signs of Periodontal (Gum) Disease?
Before gum disease occurs, it starts out as gingivitis. If this is left untreated, it develops into gum disease. Gum disease can be prevented and stopped, so knowing the signs to look for are critical in saving your teeth. These signs include:
- Bleeding gums (especially when brushing and flossing)
- Sore, swollen and red gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Pus between teeth and gums
- Receding gum line
- Sores in and around the gums
Why is treatment of Periodontal (Gum) Disease needed?
If left untreated, gum disease can get worse and eventually lead to the loss of most or all of your teeth. It can erode underlying bone, requiring the need for bone grafts and other invasive procedures. Gum disease causes pocketing between the gums and teeth, allowing a deep breeding ground for bacteria to thrive. It’s important that you consider professional treatment options to take care of the disease.
What treatment options are available for Periodontal (Gum) Disease?
Each patient will need a different type of treatment plan to help stop the progression of the disease and even help in improving the stability and health of the teeth and gums. An examination is helpful in determining if you have gum disease and if so, how severe it currently is. We can then recommend several treatment options. These include:
- Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning)
- Laser therapy
- Surgical procedures (pocket reduction)
- Regular professional dental cleanings
- Oral hygiene education
- Medicated rinses and at-home treatments
- Sores in and around the gums
If you think you may have gum disease or want to come in for an exam, call us today and we will be happy to answer all of your questions.
