How to Know You Have Gum Disease
Periodontal care is a broad term used to describe dental treatments focused on gums and gum health. Keeping your gums healthy is an essential aspect of your oral care because these tissues help anchor your teeth in place, frame your teeth, and can influence your total-body health.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection in the soft tissues of the mouth that cause inflammation and pain. It is usually a byproduct of poor oral hygiene, an unhealthy diet, tobacco use, an underlying health concern, and/or dental injury.
The development of gum disease doesn’t happen overnight. It evolves in stages the longer it goes untreated. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease. It is the most treatable stage of gum disease that can often be cured without any lasting effects. But gingivitis can turn into periodontitis if it goes untreated. With full-blown periodontitis, patients can potentially experience severe gum recession, tooth loss, chronic bad breath, bleeding gums, sensitive teeth, and more.
Signs You May Have Periodontal Disease
Wondering if you may have gum disease? Here are some of the most common signs:
- Chronic bad breath (halitosis)
- Gum recession
- Loosening teeth
- Pain when eating
- Swelling gums
- Tender, bleeding gums
If you are currently experiencing any of the symptoms above, please contact your dentist right away for a consultation!
Treatments to Combat Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis can often be treated with a professional deep teeth cleaning. For periodontitis, a deep cleaning paired with laser gum therapy (to help regenerate the gums) can help combat more severe forms of gum disease. During your consultation, your dentist will be able to provide you with a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs!
We Offer Periodontal Care & More!
Do you have gum disease or think you may have gum disease? Don’t wait any longer to seek treatment! At Jonesboro Dental Care, we offer comprehensive dental services, including treatments to help combat poor gum health and get patients back on the right path toward great oral health. Please contact us to schedule your appointment.
Gum disease image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0
Categorised in: Gum Health
