Gum Disease
There are 5 stages of gum disease, starting with gingivitis (Inflammation of the gums) and progressing to periodontitis, and ultimately, to tooth loss.
Gum disease starts by damaging the soft tissue (gums) and, without treatment, can destroy the bone that supports the teeth
Periodontitis is common but largely preventable with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
The bacteria responsible for periodontitis can enter your bloodstream, affecting other parts of your body, most notably your heart.
Risk Factors for gum disease
- gingivitis
- poor oral health habits
- smoking/chewing tobacco
- Hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause
- Recreational drug use
- Genetics
- Obesity
- Immune compromised individuals
- Diseases such as Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Crohn’s Disease
Symptoms of gum disease
- Swollen gums
- Red or purplish gums
- Gums that are tender to touch and/or bleed easily
- bad breath
- pus
- loose teeth
- painful chewing
- New spaces developing between teeth
- Receding gums, making your teeth appear longer than normal
Gum Disease Treatment
Treatments available depends on the severity of disease.
More severe cases benefit from a referral to a Periodontist (gum specialist) to consider both surgical and non-surgical treatment possibilities.
Non-surgical treatment may involve a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) followed by more frequent recall visits to maintain disease (periodontal maintenance)
Contact our office to have the doctor assess your oral health.
