Understanding Gum Disease: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common but preventable condition that can have serious implications for your oral and overall health if left untreated. At Crossings Dental, we’re committed to helping you recognize the early signs of gum disease and providing effective treatments to restore your oral health. Here’s what you need to know about the symptoms and treatments for gum disease.
Top Symptoms of Gum Disease
Bleeding Gums: One of the earliest and most common signs of gum disease is bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing. This symptom is typically a sign of gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease.
Swollen or Red Gums: Healthy gums are firm and pale pink. If your gums are red, swollen, or tender, it might be an indication of gingivitis or periodontitis.
Persistent Bad Breath: Ongoing bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth can also be a sign of gum disease. This is caused by the bacteria in plaque producing toxins that irritate the gums and teeth.
Common Treatments for Gum Disease
Professional Cleaning:
The first step in treating gum disease is a professional cleaning at your dentist’s office. This isn’t just your standard cleaning. For those with gingivitis, a thorough cleaning can reverse the disease. For more advanced gum disease, like periodontitis, deep cleaning or scaling and root planing might be necessary. This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line.
Medications:
In some cases, your dentist might recommend medications to help control infection and pain, or to aid healing. These can include antibiotic mouthwashes or oral antibiotics.
Surgery:
Advanced cases of periodontitis might require surgical interventions. Options include flap surgery to remove tartar in deep pockets or bone and tissue grafts to regenerate any bone or gum tissue lost to periodontitis.
Prevention and Regular Care at Crossings Dental
Regular dental checkups and teeth cleanings are essential for maintaining oral health and preventing diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. At Crossings Dental, we recommend visiting for cleanings and checkups at least twice a year. These visits are not only affordable and pain-free but are a critical part of your preventive care strategy. Regular visits allow our dental team to identify early signs of gum disease and address them before they develop into more serious health issues.
By incorporating regular dental visits into your health routine and seeking treatment at the first sign of trouble, you can maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Remember, early detection and treatment of gum disease can save your smile and significantly impact your overall health, keeping your mouth—and you—happier and healthier for longer.
