Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can be defined as a tissue destroying infection of the gums and bone that support your teeth.
In its early stages, periodontal disease is known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is caused by hardened plaque (tartar) below the gum line. As the tartar begins to irritate the soft tissue of your gums, toxins and bacteria are able to cause infection. This is what leads to the swelling and tenderness that define gingivitis.
What’s Putting You At Risk?
The majority of people don’t show signs of gum disease until they are in their 30s or 40s. Men are more likely to have gum disease than women. Although teenagers rarely develop periodontitis, they can develop gingivitis, the milder form of gum disease.
Here are a few other risk-factors:
Signs of Gum Disease
Most of the time, it can be difficult to recognize the symptoms of gum disease on your own. Especially because early stages of gum disease may have no symptoms at all. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, it would be wise to schedule a trip to the dentist immediately:
How Gum Disease is Treated
Once the diagnosis has been made, the main goal of treatment is to gain control the infection. The number and types of treatment will vary, depending on the extent of the gum disease. Any type of treatment requires that the patient keep up good daily oral care at home; changing certain behaviors, such as smoking, is a great way to improve treatment outcome.
The procedure starts by removing plaque through a deep-cleaning method called scaling and root planning. Medications may be used with treatment that includes scaling and root planning, but they cannot always take the place of surgery. Depending on how far the disease has progressed, we may still suggest surgical treatment.
How Can I Keep My Teeth & Gums Healthy?
Once healthy has been restored to your gums, it will be pertinent for you to take extra care of your oral health.
Infections of the teeth and gums must be controlled to preserve a healthy, attractive smile. If you don’t currently see a dentist regularly or if you are seeking treatment, and you’re searching for the best dentist in Lutz, Florida, contact Diamond today and speak with a friendly team member to schedule your next appointment.