Gum Disease

What are the signs of gum disease?

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is the result of plaque buildup and bacteria accumulation around the soft tissue that supports your teeth. Some warning signs that you may have developed this condition, include:

• Red, swollen gums that bleed easily
• Gums that feel tender when you chew or brush your teeth
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
• Loosening permanent teeth
• Changes in your bite or the way your teeth fit together
• Gums that are receding from your teeth

The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. You may not notice symptoms at first, so it’s important not to allow the condition to progress to more advanced stages, such as periodontitis.

What causes gum disease?

There are several reasons you may develop gum disease. One major cause is poor oral hygiene. If you don’t brush and floss your teeth to keep plaque from building up along your gum line, you’ll most likely develop gingivitis. Other factors that contribute to the onset of gum disease include:

• Having diabetes
• Smoking
• Aging
• Heredity
• Puberty
• Pregnancy
• Certain medications
• Systemic diseases or infections
• Substance abuse

If you suspect you have gum disease because your gums are swollen or bleeding, schedule an appointment at Walker Family Dentistry. The early signs of gingivitis can usually be reversed with prompt treatment.

How do you treat gum disease?

Your treatment depends on the stage of your gum disease and your overall oral health. In its early stages, periodontal disease often responds well to a deep cleaning that includes scaling and root planing. This nonsurgical approach to gum disease thoroughly cleans the surface of your teeth and the roots that may be exposed from receding gums.

If you have more advanced stages of periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend laser therapy. Laser therapy for gum disease preserves the damaged tissue and kills the infection and bacteria in your gums and teeth. Using a special laser, your dentist removes any infected tissue using an ultrasonic root cleaner instead of a manual scraping tool.

Laser therapy for gum disease is a state-of-the-art treatment method that stimulates the cells in your mouth to regenerate new, healthy gum tissue and bone. Your body’s healing response to the laser treatment can help preserve your teeth and minimize the risk of a systemic bacterial infection.

If your gums hurt or bleed on occasion, a dental checkup can confirm if you have gum disease. Call today to schedule or book online anytime day or night.