Gum disease, also known as periodontal, is one of the top reasons for tooth loss in adults. It’s an infection of the gums surrounding your teeth, but because it is virtually pain-free, many patients do not know they have the disease. That’s why during each regular checkup, your dentist will check for signs of periodontal disease by measuring the space between your teeth and gums.
Gum disease treatments in Canandaigua, NY
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque, a sticky form of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Plaque can be removed by flossing, brushing and regular dental checkups, but if left to build up it creates toxins that can damage the gums. When periodontal disease forms, it creates small pockets just below the gum line that separate the gums from the teeth. Periodontal disease has two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and consists of gums that are red, swollen and bleed easily. During this stage, the disease is treatable and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing.
If left untreated, gingivitis will advance into periodontitis, causing the gums and bone that support the teeth to become seriously — and possibly irreversibly — damaged. When gums are infected with periodontitis, teeth can become loose, fall out or require dental extraction.
There are some factors that can increase a patient's risk of developing periodontal disease.
Those include:
- Diabetes
- Old fillings
- Smoking or using chewing tobacco
- Certain types of medication such as steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, calcium channel blockers, and oral contraceptives
- Bridges that no longer fit properly
- Crooked teeth
- Pregnancy
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
While it is possible to have periodontal disease and not know it, some symptoms can include:
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
- Any change in the fit of partial dentures
How is gum disease treated?
Although treatment for gum disease varies based on the individual patient, typical treatments include:
- Non-surgical treatments such as at-home periodontal trays, and scaling and deep cleaning, also called root planing
- Dental implants
- Periodontal surgery and laser gum surgery
How can gum disease be prevented?
You don’t have to lose teeth to periodontal disease. By practicing good oral hygiene at home, you can significantly reduce your chances of ever getting gum disease. Remember to brush regularly, clean between your teeth, eat a balanced diet, and remember that regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are important for maintaining your health and the health of your smile.
As your Canandaigua dentist, our caring dental team
ensures you experience a positive dental visit every time.
