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Gum disease originates in the gums, where infections form from harmful bacteria and other matter left behind from eating. Early warning signs include chronic bad breath, tender or painful swollen gums and minor bleeding after brushing or flossing. In many cases, gum disease can go unnoticed for months until damage is severe. Once gum disease sets in, the toxins produced by the bacteria damage the teeth's connective tissue and bone, effectively destroying them and fostering tooth loss. Signs of Gum Disease and Causes As gum disease progresses, the bone tends to recede. In some cases, the root of your tooth can become exposed, causing tooth sensitivity. Since bone recession is not visible to the naked eye, left untreated it, may contribute to tooth loss. It is very important to visit your dentist for professional examinations and dental cleanings to effectively and properly identify gum disease. Some common signs of gum disease include:
• Bleeding gums during tooth brushing or flossing
• Sensitive, red or swollen gums
• Bad breath
• Teeth that are loose or appear to have shifted Many people may not even be aware that they have gum disease, because it is often not painful. Additional gum disease symptoms include mouth sores, itchy gums, bad breath, an unpleasant taste and gum recession.
Each cause of gum disease can be corrected and controlled. While poor hygiene is usually the main cause of gum disease, there are a number of other factors that can contribute to the development of it as well, including:
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Certain medications
• Substance abuse
• Pregnancy
• Genetics
• Stress
• Poor nutrition Preventing Gum Disease Untreated gum disease can usually progress into more serious stages of gum disease, which cause irreversible bone loss and potential tooth loss. Prevention is essential in the maintenance of your smile. The best way to prevent gum disease is to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, visiting your dentist for regular checkups and maintaining a proper, nutritious diet. Choosing the proper toothbrush is important in prevention as well. Softer brushes are less likely to injure your gums, and electric toothbrushes often encourage better brushing habits. Remember not to brush too vigorously, though. Brushing too long or too hard can do more harm than good. Treatments If gum disease is caught in its earliest stages, it is extremely manageable. Your dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth in a process called scaling, during which all hardened tartar and plaque are removed from your teeth, both above and below the gum line. Following scaling, your dentist may recommend an oral rinse and will advise you on a good oral health maintenance program. Bleeding may occur during the first couple days after scaling, but it should subside if you maintain your regimen. If you are experiencing bleeding white brushing or any other symptoms of gum disease, contact your Waunakee dentists for further examination. Remember, early diagnosis and prevention are key in the maintenance of your smile.
Sean Hartmen writes for premier Waunakee cosmetic dentists, Drs. Stanley Karls and Matthew Karls. A father-son practice, Karls Family Dentistry has been serving Waunakee since 1970. Waunakee natives, Dr. Matthew Karls and Dr. Stanley Karls are committed to providing the best in quality dental care for patients of all ages.
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