Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common yet serious condition that affects the gums and the bones supporting your teeth. It often starts silently, with mild symptoms that can be easily overlooked, but if left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other health complications.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. The bacteria in plaque and tartar can irritate the gums, leading to inflammation and infection.
There are two main stages of gum disease:
- Gingivitis: The early stage of gum disease, where the gums become red, swollen, and may bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is reversible with proper dental care.
- Periodontitis: If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis. This advanced stage involves the gums pulling away from the teeth, creating pockets that become infected. Over time, the bones and tissues supporting the teeth can be destroyed, leading to tooth loss.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in your bite
Treatment Options at Pure Dental
Treating gum disease early is crucial to preventing further damage. The type of treatment Dr. Neral will recommend depends on the severity of your condition.
- Professional Cleaning: In the early stages, a thorough cleaning by a member of the Pure Dental hygiene team can remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. This helps to reduce inflammation and allows the gums to heal.
- Scaling and Root Planing: For more advanced cases, a deep cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing may be necessary. This treatment removes tartar and bacteria from the teeth and roots, helping to reduce the size of the pockets around the teeth.
- Antibiotic Therapy: Dr. Neral may suggest antibiotics to be used alongside scaling and root planing to help control the infection and reduce bacteria.
- Surgical Treatments: In severe cases, surgical procedures such as flap surgery or bone and tissue grafts may be required to restore the health of the gums and supporting structures.
Preventing Gum Disease
The best way to prevent gum disease is through good oral hygiene practices:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and under the gumline.
- Visit our Farmington Hills dental office regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
- Avoid smoking, as it significantly increases the risk of gum disease.
By staying proactive with your dental care, you can protect your gums and keep your smile healthy for years to come. If you experience any signs of gum disease, don’t wait—schedule an appointment at Pure Dental to ensure your gums are in good shape.