Periodontal Disease
At Gregorin Dental, we prioritize the health of your gums as an essential part of your overall oral well-being. Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, can have serious consequences if left untreated. Our commitment to Uncompromised Dentistry ensures that your gums receive the care they need to stay healthy.
WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, begins with an infection in the gums, which can lead to the separation of the teeth and gums. This separation creates pockets that invite bacteria, leading to inflammation and further infection. In its early stage, this condition is known as gingivitis. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, affecting the connective tissue and bone that support your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss and other serious health issues.
WARNING SIGNS
While gum disease is often painless, there are several warning signs to watch for:
- Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed easily during brushing or eating.
- Red, Swollen Gums: Gums that are tender or inflamed.
- Persistent Bad Breath: Ongoing bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
- Changes in Your Bite: Teeth that no longer fit together correctly.
- Gum Recession: Gums that have pulled away from your teeth, making them appear longer.
- Loose Teeth: Teeth that feel loose or are shifting in your mouth.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to see your dentist promptly. Early detection and treatment can prevent more serious consequences.
WHAT CAUSES GUM DISEASE?
Gum disease can be caused by various factors, including poor oral hygiene, irregular dental checkups, smoking, pregnancy, diabetes, certain medications, and some illnesses. Addressing these risk factors and maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent the onset of gum disease.
The good news is that periodontal disease is preventable. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining healthy gums. If you are at risk for periodontal disease, such as being a smoker or diabetic, your dentist may recommend periodic periodontal exams. Maintaining a consistent dental routine of brushing and flossing daily is the most effective way to prevent gum disease and protect your smile.
GINGIVITIS
If you have gingivitis, you are in the early stage of gum disease and this is good news for you. Getting treatment at this stage means that you will avoid the more serious consequences of gum disease and it is reversible. The symptoms of gingivitis are red, swollen gums that easily bleed. A professional cleaning and strict attention by you with daily brushing and flossing can reverse this early warning sign.
PERIODONTITIS
If you ignore the early warning signs and wait until you have full-blown periodontitis, you have reached the advanced stages of gum disease. If at this point you do nothing, you risk bone and tissue loss which only gets worse over time. Your teeth could start to deteriorate, decay or even break. You may even notice that your teeth are loose in your mouth. Once advanced, your teeth may even start to fall out.
Advanced, or aggressive periodontal disease, is extremely destructive. Though you may appear healthy, your teeth and gums and their underlying structures are not. You may rapidly lose tissue and bone in some areas or all areas of your mouth. This loss of bone density can cause your teeth to loosen and most likely require your teeth to be removed to decrease risk of infection.
As this disease advances, your appearance may change due to changes in the structure of your jaw. You may appear older than your years and the shape of your face may change as well. The ultimate end result is that you will most certainly lose some, if not all your teeth depending on how far the disease has progressed.
PERIODONTAL DISEASE PREVENTION
The good news is this is one disease you can easily prevent. Having regular dental checkups with your dentist is a good way to start. Your dentist may recommend that you have periodic periodontal exams as well, particularly if you are an at-risk patient, such as a smoker or diabetic. If you do have periodontal disease, your dentist can create a treatment plan for you that will help arrest the disease. Most important is having a good dental routine of brushing and flossing that you follow daily.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
For more information about dental veneers such as how to take care of your veneers or understand if they’re right for you, call us today! Experience the difference of uncompromised dental care with Gregorin Dental, your trusted Anchorage dentist.