Gum diseases are common and still, there is so little we know about the problem. Here is what you need to know if you have gum disease & what can you do about it.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also commonly referred to as Periodontal Disease, is not well understood by many, but it is a very serious condition. Here is some information you should know:
- When a bacterial infection attacks your gums, tissue, and surrounding bones, it causes gum disease. This infection starts because of poor dental hygiene and will get worse without intervention.
- Without good hygiene and regular professional dental cleanings, tartar (plaque) will build up at the surface of, and underneath your gums.
- Gum disease is treatable. When caught early, it’s possible to kill an infection, stop inflammation, and restore the health of teeth
- Early signs of gum disease include painful, red gums that bleed.
- If gum disease is untreated, it can progress and lead to bone deterioration, which will result in loose teeth that may fall out.
- Your dentist will diagnose gum disease by examining your mouth for plaque buildup and by measuring your pocket depth with a dental probe. (Pocket depth is the space between your teeth and gums). Your dentist may also order dental X-rays to check for bone loss.
- If you have gum disease, you’ll need a special dental cleaning procedure called scaling and root planning (also known as a “Deep Cleaning”), to remove plaque that has built-up and hardened underneath your teeth and gums. Antibiotics may be prescribed to help kill any infection.
- Severe cases of gum disease may require surgery. Options include: flap surgery, bone grafting, splinting. Bite adjustment and a mouthguard may also be recommended.
Gum disease is serious, but it is preventable and treatable. If you have a concern about gum disease, we would love to talk to you at Belleview Dental Associates in Littleton. Give us a call to schedule your next consultation.
