WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums and soft tissue that securely hold your teeth in place. The infection is caused by bacteria that become trapped in and around the base of your teeth and is usually a result of poor oral hygiene. The inflammation and infection cause pockets to form around the base of the teeth and this cycle allows more bacteria to become trapped and multiply if these pockets are not cleaned regularly and controlled. Without gum disease treatment, it is also a risk factor for serious health for heart and lung diseases.
Periodontal disease begins as gingivitis, inflaming the gums. The advanced stage of periodontal disease is known as periodontitis and can lead to tooth loss. The good news is that periodontal disease can be prevented by regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist. If we find any stage of periodontal disease, gum disease treatment may be necessary.
SIGNS OF HEALTHY GUMS
Healthy gums are essential to the health and retention of your teeth, and also an indicator of your overall health. We want to ensure that your gums are in excellent condition, as they are the foundation of your teeth and a healthy smile begins with a strong foundation.
According to research, the majority of people have or will experience some level of gum disease even if it is in the early stages such as gingivitis. There are factors that increase the risk of gum disease such as:
Healthy gums are tight around the base of the teeth, pink and do not bleed when they are gently probed. There is also little space between gums and teeth, making it tough for bacteria to build up.
SIGNS OF UNHEALTHY GUMS
Without gum disease treatment, your gums may become red, swollen and bleed easily. This is known as gingivitis and is the first stage of gum disease. The space between the gum and teeth will widen (known as periodontal pockets) allowing bacteria to build up easily. Although it may not be visible, this is serious, because the bacteria may eventually begin to attack the bone. Gum disease treatment may be necessary to prevent tooth loss.
With periodontitis, your gums begin to pull away from your teeth and the area in between your teeth and gums becomes infected. As a result, oral surgery is sometimes necessary to treat infection and remove plaque and tartar. In less severe cases, a dentist, such as Dr. Martin, may be able to reach the plaque and tartar that are below the gum line without surgery.
When caught early, periodontal disease can be controlled and even reversed before gum disease treatment becomes necessary with gum disease treatment. You can restore the health of your gums by brushing and flossing and seeing your dentist regularly to clean the tartar and plaque buildup that contributes to gum disease.
SYMPTOMS OF GUM DISEASE
As gum disease is a progressive condition, the symptoms of gum disease can vary. Some people may experience small amounts of bleeding during brushing or inflamed gums for several years before another symptom occurs. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is important to seek a dental health professional to begin gum disease treatment and reduce the risk of tooth loss or oral surgery. Medical research increasingly shows gum disease may be linked to a host of other serious medical problems, including heart attack, diabetes and stroke. The following symptoms may indicate some level of periodontal disease that may require gum disease treatment:
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN YOUR GUMS AND ORAL HEALTH
We all know the importance of preventing decay and keeping our teeth clean and that is why most people brush their teeth twice a day. But, did you know that it is equally as important to take care of the gums, which help anchor the teeth in the bone? Taking care of the gums by flossing every day has a direct positive impact on your oral health as well as your overall health. Gum disease treatment should be considered as soon as the first symptom appears in order to protect your teeth.
GUM DISEASE TREATMENT
At Anthony Martin Dentistry, our hygiene team is highly trained to perform diagnostic measurements of periodontal pockets and the initial aspects of periodontal therapy, or gum disease treatment. Initial gum disease treatment includes the removal of plaque and tartar build-up above and below the gum line, and may also include the use of localized antibiotics to aid in treating the gums. Patients with more advanced stages of periodontal disease may benefit from a referral to a gum specialist, called a periodontist. Periodontists specialize in gum disease treatments, and may recommend surgical treatments such as bone grafts or skin tissues grafts.
If you have symptoms of gum disease, Anthony Martin Dentistry is here to help. Remember, gum disease is treatable and even reversible. Call today to learn more about gum disease treatment and how you stay on top of your oral health at (757) 886-0300.
Your Trusted Partner in Dentistry
Comprehensive Dental Care In Yorktown, Virginia
Ready to enhance your dental health with compassionate, expert care? Visit Anthony Martin Dentistry to experience our patient-focused approach in Yorktown, Virginia. Whether you’re looking for cosmetic, reconstructive or general dental care, your perfect smile starts here.
