Many people think tooth decay is the only threat to their smile, but there might be another danger lingering in your mouth. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss, despite it being preventable. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates at least 50% of adults have a form of the condition. If you have periodontal disease, time is of the utmost importance. With the right care at the first sign of the infection, your dentist can save your smile from any long-term complications.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection that occurs in the gingival tissue as a result of bacteria found in plaque and tartar accumulations from poor oral hygiene. The gums become red and inflamed. They may even bleed when you brush and floss your teeth. Over time, your gum tissue will pull away from your teeth, causing pockets to form. As more bacteria and plaque are trapped in the pockets, the infection will intensify. Eventually, it can break down your gum tissue and bone, leading to the eventual loss of your teeth.
There are 3 stages of gum disease. Your dentist will create a personalized treatment plan depending on which stage you’re in, which can include:
- Gingivitis: The earliest stage of gum disease is gingivitis. It occurs when the gum tissue becomes inflamed and irritated. At this point, it can be resolved without causing long-term damage using a deep cleaning and changes to your home oral hygiene routine.
- Periodontitis: If gum disease isn’t treated, it will progress to periodontitis. The supporting bone and fibers will be damaged, causing your teeth to loosen. You may even see your gum line recede from your teeth. Now, you’ll need a more in-depth treatment plan, and the issues the infection has caused will need to be corrected.
- Advanced Periodontitis: The final stage of the infection causes irreversible complications, like tooth loss. You may even notice changes to your bite, which can impact your oral functions. You’ll need an aggressive treatment to stop the infection. In some cases, you may even need to have teeth extracted if they’ve been too badly damaged.
Can I Prevent Gum Disease?
Although gum disease is common, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk of it:
- Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste.
- Clean all surfaces of your teeth for at least 2 minutes.
- Use a high-quality dental floss to clean in between each tooth and around the gum line every day.
- Visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.
Invest in a Healthy Smile
Don’t wait until it’s too late to save your smile. Contact your dentist at the first sign of gum disease.
About Deer Park Family Dentistry
Deer Park Family Dentistry provides comprehensive dental services from one location. Our team is qualified to provide a variety of specialty services, including gum disease therapy. We can stop the infection and rehabilitate your smile with a customized treatment plan. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.