Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a bacterial infection affecting the soft and hard tissues supporting teeth. If left untreated, it significantly contributes to tooth loss in adulthood and can result in other health issues.
To keep your gums healthy, it’s vital to comprehend the warning signs, symptoms, causes, treatments, and preventative actions for periodontal disease. We will give a general review of periodontal disease in this post, covering risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment. You can ensure your gums stay healthy and strong with the right knowledge.
What is Gum Disease Exactly?
Gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease, comes initially. An infection spreads when plaque and bacteria accumulate on your teeth. Brushing and flossing frequently result in red, swollen, or bleeding gums. Your dentist or hygienist can treat gingivitis, which can be reversed with ongoing home care.
The second type of sickness is periodontitis, a dangerous gum infection that harms soft tissue and may ultimately destroy the bone that supports your teeth. Lousy breath, uncomfortable chewing, and spitting up blood is typical symptoms.
Periodontitis can cause a tooth to loosen or even fall out. It may contribute to the development of diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, chronic renal disease, many heart disorders, strokes, and other issues. The deadly bacterial illness known as periodontitis causes long-term harm to the mouth.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Periodontitis?
Although gum disease often exhibits silent signs, it can not show up until the condition has considerably worsened. Pay attention to the red flags including red, swollen, or irritated gums, mouth sores, and sensitive teeth. When you brush or clean your teeth, your gums should not bleed readily.
If your gums appear to have ripped away from your teeth, pus should be present between your teeth and gums.
Advice for Treating Periodontal Disease
Fortunately, periodontal disease can be treated and even reversed if caught early. Here are some tips for treating periodontal disease.
Visit the Dentist Regularly: Regular dental visits are essential for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease. During a routine checkup, your dentist will check for signs of gum disease and recommend treatment options if needed.
Improve Your Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene is essential for preventing and treating periodontal disease. Brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce the risk of gum disease.
Use a Medicated Mouthwash: Medicated mouthwashes can help reduce the bacteria that cause periodontal disease. Ask the best dentist or dental hygienist for a recommendation.
Avoid Tobacco Products: Smoking and other forms of tobacco use are linked to an increased risk of gum disease. Quitting smoking or using other tobacco products can help reduce the risk of developing periodontal disease.
Eat a Healthy Diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods can help promote good oral health and reduce the risk of periodontal disease.
Consider Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat periodontal disease. Common procedures include scaling and root planing, flap surgery, and bone grafting.
Conclusion
Periodontal disease is a serious oral health issue that needs to be treated as soon as possible. Following the tips above can help you maintain good oral health and reduce the risk of developing periodontal disease. If you think you may have periodontal disease, visit a dental office to discuss treatment options.
Eckland Family Dentistry has provided quality dental care to the families of Everett, Redmond & Woodinville since 1980. Schedule an appointment with us in Woodinville, Washington, today!
