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Do you think that gum disease or periodontal disease can only happen to your grandparents? It is apparent that anyone, young and old, can develop gum disease if the proper preventative measures are not used. Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues and bone that support the teeth. Untreated gum disease can become very serious and lead to other severe problems. Gum disease involves inflammation and infection that destroys the tissues that support the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligaments and the tooth sockets. Developed by the long-term effects of plague build-up, a sticky material made of bacteria, mucus, and food debris, gum disease can be simply fought by brushing and flossing regularly. Prevention is Key to Fighting off Gum Disease Good oral hygiene is the best prevention against gum disease. Your teeth should be brushed at least twice a day and flossed gently. For people who are more prone to gum disease, brushing and flossing may be recommended after every meal and at bedtime. Consult your dentist for instructions on proper brushing and flossing techniques as well as assessing your risk. Regular professional teeth cleaning are important to remove plaque build-up that may develop even with careful brushing and flossing. Many dentists recommend having your teeth professionally cleaned at least every six months. In addition to your regular cleanings, the dentist can examine your gums and look for any signs of gum disease developing. How to Detect Gum Disease Within the early stages of detection and development, there may be no pain or discomfort experienced. This is why gum disease can easily progress into more serious conditions. Some of the ways you can detect gum disease, even without pain, are: • Gums that bleed easily, especially during brushing, flossing and eating
• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Loose or separating teeth
• Gums that are pulling away from the teeth
• Pus between your gums and teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• A change in your bite
• A change in the fit of partial dentures Treatment of Gum Disease Gum disease is the major cause of tooth loss in adults, but, in many cases, it is avoidable. One method in treating gum disease is called root planning. This involves cleaning and scarping below the gum line to smooth the roots. If effective, this procedure helps the gums reattach themselves to the tooth structure. The best way to avoid and treat gum disease is to visit your Lone Tree family dentist. With regular check-ups and cleanings, a dentist can help diagnose and eliminate gum disease in your mouth and prevent further complications with your health. If you suspect you may have gum disease, call your dentist today to set up an appointment for a check-up and cleaning.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Angela Osborn, a leading family, cosmetic and eco-friendly dentist in Lone Tree. Specializing in a variety of cosmetic and family dental services including Invisalign and implant restoration, this Lone Tree family dentist is qualified to handle every dental need for patients in Lone Tree, Colorado.
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