Gum disease can be treated if it is identified early.
Unfortunately, gum disease is a common concern for many people. The condition is most often caused by a bacterial infection and leads to inflammation of the gums, as well as a number of other uncomfortable symptoms. If you notice the first signs of early gum disease, it is important that you see your dentist as soon as possible — if left unresolved, the condition can lead to a more advanced stage of the condition known as periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss and other oral health issues. Read on to find out more about gum disease, how to spot the early signs, and how the issue can be resolved…
What causes gum disease?
When plaque forms on the teeth and gums and is left to accumulate over time, it can harden into tartar. Plaque and tartar consist of bacteria and can lead to gum infection, particularly when they reach the area below the gum line.
The early stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can have a detrimental effect on the gums and underlying bone, causing the gums to recede. The condition can also cause the teeth to become loose.
Some of the most common risk factors for gum disease include underlying health conditions, including diabetes; certain genetic factors; hormonal changes that occur as a result of pregnancy; smoking; and crooked or crowded teeth that are difficult to clean.
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
In some cases, gum disease presents with no symptoms, so it can be difficult to know if you have the condition. You may, however, experience red and swollen gums; bleeding gums, especially when brushing and flossing; receding gums; changes to the alignment of your teeth; persistent bad breath; and tooth pain or sensitivity.
It is advisable to see your dentist if you experience any of these symptoms. If identified early, it is often possible to reverse some of the effects of early gum disease.
How can gum disease be treated?
The best way to manage the early signs of gum disease is to practice proper oral hygiene. This includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily.
If your dentist identifies the early signs of gum disease, they may recommend that you have your teeth deep cleaned. During a professional clean, plaque and tartar will be removed to reduce inflammation and prevent further irritation to the gums. There are a few ways in which the teeth can be cleaned — these include scaling, root planning and laser cleaning.
In some cases, your dentist may recommend that you take antibiotic medications to resolve gum disease. Other treatment options include gum surgery, in which plaque and tartar are removed from the deep pockets in the gums; and bone and tissue grafts in very severe cases.
How can we help?
At Crown Dental Group, we offer a range of general dentistry services, including periodontal treatment. We encourage all of our patients to come in and see us for regular dental check-ups so that we can identify and treat the inflammation that causes gum disease early.
If you have noticed any of the first signs of gum disease, such as persistent bad breath, red and swollen gums, bleeding gums, and pain when chewing, it is advisable that you make an appointment as soon as possible. Our team will let you know if there are ways in which your oral hygiene routine and techniques can be improved. If your dentist identifies gum disease that has advanced into periodontitis, your treatment options may include root canal therapy, scaling, antibiotics or surgical intervention.
To find out more about gum disease and how we can help to manage the issue, please have a look here.
If you would like to arrange an appointment to see us, please don’t hesitate to get in touch here or give us a call on (03) 8288 1477.