Periodontics

What is gum disease?

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gum tissues that support your teeth. It’s typically caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria on the gums. Over time, plaque begins to release toxins, which destroy gum tissue and make it difficult for your gums to hold your teeth securely in place.

Without proper treatment, gum disease can cause a series of health problems, including gum inflammation, bad breath, and tooth loss.

Are there different types of gum disease?

There are two main types of gum disease that Advantage Dental Care treats:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is the first stage of gum disease. It’s characterized by red, tender gums that likely bleed when you brush your teeth. Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible with the right treatment, such as a professional dental cleaning and routine brushing and flossing.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an advanced gum disease that usually develops from untreated gingivitis. If you have periodontitis, plaque and bacteria has bred below the gum line and may destroy your tooth-supporting gum tissue and bone. Untreated periodontitis leads to gum recession, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

You may not realize you have gum disease until it progresses to periodontitis. To avoid this potentially serious condition, watch out for the following gum disease symptoms:

• Gum inflammation
• Tender gums
• Red gums
• Bleeding gums
• Bad breath
• Plaque-filled pockets between the gums and teeth
• Gum recession
• Changes in bite
• Shifting or loose teeth
• Tooth loss

Gum disease is a silent disease for many. That’s why it’s important to have a comprehensive dental exam at Advantage Dental Care at least twice a year, or once every six months.

How is gum disease treated?

The first step in treating gum disease is determining its severity. If you have gingivitis, a professional dental cleaning and improved oral hygiene habits may be enough to stop the disease’s progression.

However, once gum disease progresses into periodontitis, you may need a deep cleaning. For a professional deep cleaning, Advantage Dental Care uses an ultrasonic scaler to clean built-up bacteria and plaque from your teeth, gums, and below the gum line.

A deep cleaning eliminates the pockets of plaque and bacteria below the gum line before they begin releasing toxins that can destroy your tooth-supporting tissues and bone. Depending on the severity of your gum disease, your dentist may administer local anesthesia before the cleaning.

To prevent and treat gum disease, call Advantage Dental Care or schedule an appointment online today.