Gum disease is an increasingly common disorder that can lead to tooth loss. This disease often occurs when a patient does not adequately remove plaque and food particles from the area around the gum line through brushing and flossing.
In its earliest stage, known as gingivitis, gum disease is fully reversible with excellent home care and professional cleanings. However, as the condition becomes entrenched, it can only be managed, not eliminated. Prevention is key in warding off the worst effects of this condition, including tooth loss.
Symptoms
If you have any of the following symptoms, call your dentist for an appointment as soon as possible:
- Red, swollen, bleeding gums
- Sensitive teeth
- Receding gums
- Bad breath
- More space between teeth
- Loose teeth
Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis
Gingivitis causes swollen, red gums that bleed when brushed or flossed. When you intervene at this stage, you and your dentist can reverse the condition with proper home care and professional attention. Gingivitis will continue to develop into full-blown gum disease if allowed to persist.
Periodontitis: Stage 1
As gums become inflamed, they begin to pull away from the teeth. The resulting spaces between the teeth and gums are called periodontal pockets. Food debris, plaque, and bacteria gather in the pockets, leading to infection. Bacterial toxins damage the bone surrounding your teeth.
Stage 2
You may feel discomfort at this stage. Supporting bone begins to break down, causing teeth to loosen. The gums visibly recede.
Stage 3
Painful abscesses develop, and the teeth loosen further.
Stage 4
Teeth may begin to fall out at this stage.
Treatments for Gum Disease
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a highly effective first-line treatment for the early stages of periodontal disease. During a scaling procedure, the dentist or hygienist removes all tartar and plaque from the tooth surface using specialized instruments called scalers.
Root planing involves smoothing the tooth's root so healthy gums can more easily reattach and shrink the periodontal pockets.
For more advanced periodontal disease, the dentist may recommend you see a specialist for surgical treatment.
How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?
The most important step to prevent gum disease is cleaning your teeth by brushing and flossing. Brush twice daily using an approved fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once daily. When you floss, ensure you reach below the gum line as much as possible using a gentle motion.
Regular dental cleanings also help prevent gum disease. Even if your teeth look healthy, you must visit the dentist twice yearly for a cleaning and comprehensive exam.
Call Paramount Dental Arts
If you have any of the symptoms of gum disease listed above, call us for an evaluation. We can determine whether you need further treatment for gum disease and help you preserve your natural teeth well into the future. Please call our Clifton, NJ, office at 973-777-1772 to schedule an appointment.