Gum Disease & Treatment of Gum Disease
Gum disease is among the most prevalent oral health problems affecting patients nationwide. Many people don’t know they have gum disease until the condition begins to cause symptoms. Untreated gum disease can cause receding gums, loose teeth, bone loss, and tooth loss. When caught in the early stages, gum disease can often be reversed to protect your smile and prevent future complications.
Looking for gum disease treatment in Danforth? Learn more about the signs of gum disease and your treatment options below.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease or periodontal disease is an infection caused by bacteria that causes plaque build-up along the gum line. Early stage gum disease is called gingivitis and only affects your gums. Gingivitis can typically be reversed with professional dental treatment and better oral hygiene at home.
If left untreated, gingivitis can advance into periodontitis, which is severe gum disease that affects the bone structure and tissues surrounding teeth.
Signs of Gum Disease
There are a few signs you can watch for if you think you might have gum disease. Catching the disease early can help you avoid irreversible damage to your gums. These are signs you may have gum disease:
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Bleeding when brushing and flossing
- Smelly breath that won’t go away
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Pain when chewing
- Shifted teeth or changes in your bite
If you experience any of these symptoms, make sure to see your dentist the soonest. The earlier you treat your gum disease, the better.
How Is Gum Disease Treated?
Treatments your dentist may recommend depend on the severity of your gum disease. If your condition is in the early stages, your dentist may be able to reverse your gum disease with a professional dental cleaning and improved oral hygiene habits at home.
In more severe cases, you may need to have a deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. During this procedure, your dentist will remove plaque buildup below your gumline and smooth out your tooth roots. This helps your gums reattach to your teeth and heal properly.
If you have advanced gum disease, you may need surgery to correct the condition. Your dentist will discuss proper treatment options for you when you visit your office.
Can Gum Disease Be Prevented?
Yes, periodontal disease can often be prevented with better brushing and flossing at home. Also, by visiting your dentist regularly you can ensure that you keep your smile healthy and catch oral health problems in their early stages. Try to:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily
- Visit your dentist regularly for dental checkups and cleanings
- Quit smoking and avoid using tobacco products
- Eat a balanced diet and avoid foods high in sugar
The sooner you catch your gum disease, the easier it will be to treat! Don’t ignore any symptoms you may be experiencing. Make sure to call your dentist if you think you have gum disease.
Gum Disease Treatment in Danforth
When searching for gum disease treatment in Danforth, look no further than Danforth Dentists. We offer highly personalized care when it comes to preventing, detecting, and treating gum disease. Our team will work with you to ensure you get the right treatment for your condition. Whether you have bleeding gums, receding gums, or other symptoms of gum disease, we can help. Contact Danforth Dentists today to book your appointment and keep your gums healthy.