Do You Have Gum Disease? Signs of Periodontal Disease

Friday, February 6, 2015

According to a recent study done by the Center for Disease Control, just short of 50% of American adults have some form of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Many of those with gum disease aren’t even aware that they have it. In this article, we hope to educate our patients on periodontal disease and how we can help them attain better oral health.
 

What is Gingivitis and Periodontitis?

Gingivitis and periodontitis are the two most prevalent forms of gum disease. Gingivitis, while having many different causes, is often a result of a lack of proper oral hygiene. When the body recognizes the lack of health in your mouth and attempts to remedy the situation, a low-grade chronic infection occurs.

Periodontitis, on the other hand, is more serious. When oral health has been neglected for too long, gingivitis will progress into periodontitis. Periodontitis differs from gingivitis in a few ways. First, while gingivitis affects the gum tissues, periodontitis can take the disease further by going into the bone and/or ligamentous attachments that hold your teeth. If left long enough, this can lead to tooth loss. Second, while gingivitis can be reversed and your gum can return to a healthy state, periodontitis can only be stopped, not reversed.

 


Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease

While these signs and symptoms do not necessarily mean that gum disease is present, it is a good idea to get them checked by your dentist.

Some examples are:

·      Redness or swelling of gum tissue

·      Gums that bleed easily during brushing or eating

·      Chronic bad breath

·      Loose teeth

·      Painful gums

·      Gums that have receded, leading to more visible tooth structure than normal

Treating Gum Disease

In order to begin treating gum disease, you must first visit your dentist. If it is determined that you show signs of gum disease, your dentist may refer you to a Eustis periodontist, such as Richardson Periodontics, to continue your treatment. A formal cleaning will create a fresh start and promote a healthier oral environment. From there, different treatments may be suggested depending on the level of your gum disease. These could include non-surgical scaling and root planning, periodontal surgery, bone grafts, and soft tissue grafts, as well as periodontal maintenance to ensure the problem doesn’t return.


Richardson Periodontics & Implant Dentistry is a full service periodontics and implant dentistry center with locations in Eustis, FL. Richardson Periodontics & Implant Dentistry offers a full array of periodontics services to help you maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile. Contact our Eustis dental office at 352-589-1973 for more information about gum disease or schedule your appointment online.

Richardson Periodontics 2/6/2015

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