Do you ever have that feeling like something is just not right, but you can’t guess what it is? This feeling is too tight for many, and the answer lies in their oral health. Maybe they have developed gum disease. This nasty infection results in bleeding, redness, and soreness in the gums and leads to tooth loss if left untreated. But what precisely is gum disease? Keep reading to discover everything you need about this oral health problem.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease or periodontal disease is an infection of the oral tissues surrounding and sustaining your teeth. It is due to plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that continuously forms on your teeth. If not cleared through brushing and flossing, plaque will solidify into tartar, a substance that can only be removed through professional dental cleaning.
If tartar is not cleared, it will continue to spread underneath the gum line and start to break down the bone that sustains your teeth. It eventually leads to pockets forming between the teeth and gums, which are ideal places for bacteria to disguise and further continue their work of ruining your smile. As the condition progresses, you may encounter signs like bleeding gums, receding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, or a change in the fitting of your dentures.
What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
There are several indicative signs that you may have gum disease. These include:
- Swollen gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- Receding gums
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
If you notice any of these signs, ensure to see your dentist in Salt Lake City as soon as possible, so they can analyze the issue and start treating it.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Poor oral hygiene habits drive the majority of issues of gum disease. As mentioned, plaque is continually gathering on your teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, this plaque will start to harden into tartar, leading to gum disease. Other factors that may contribute to developing gum disease include cigarettes, tobacco products, medications, diabetes, and also pregnancy.
Stages of Gum Disease
As mentioned earlier, gum disease begins as gingivitis and may advance into periodontitis. Let’s talk about each stage.
1. Gingivitis
This situation shows itself as bleeding gums. Early-stage gum disease impacts only the gums, and when detected early, it can be cured by enhancing and re-focusing on good daily dental hygiene.
2. Periodontitis
Bleeding gums also occur in mild periodontitis, but with advanced inflammation. At this moment, the gums may also begin to reduce to form ‘pockets.’
Advanced periodontitis damages your gums and the bone tissue in the teeth that support your jaw. Besides deeper gum pockets and bleeding, you might catch loose teeth or some of your teeth falling out. Tooth extraction may be performed unless the bone tissue is retrieved by your dentist in Salt Lake City.
How To Prevent Severe Gum Disease?
Brush your teeth adequately at least twice a day, floss at least once a day, and add an antibacterial mouthwash to your oral hygiene routine. You should also visit your nearest dentist at least twice a year for an oral examination and professional cleanings to keep your oral health in check.
Even if you have the early signs, it’s not too late to seek the proper treatment. Book an appointment with Children’s DS & Adult Dentistry.
Best Gum Disease Treatment For You!
At our dental office, our proficient dentists can provide your gum disease treatment in Salt Lake City & offers a wide range of dental care services. We’ll provide the critical dental care you deserve to address gum disease. Schedule your dental appointment now!
