Gum disease is an infection of the gums and soft tissue around your teeth caused by plaque buildup. The bacteria found in plaque irritate the gum tissue, causing it to turn red, swell and become tender. If left untreated, it can lead to the loss of teeth. Plaque can also harden into a substance called tartar that a dental professional can only remove.
This infection can progress into the bone that supports the teeth, causing periodontitis. Over time, this can cause the teeth to become loose and eventually fall out. Visiting the dentist at N STREET DENTAL, every six months for professional cleanings and exams is essential for removing plaque and tartar from the teeth that cannot be removed through regular at-home care. If a patient is diagnosed with periodontal disease, they may experience scaling and root planing therapy, also called deep cleaning.
Along with receding gums, there are other symptoms of gum disease. You’ll likely experience bleeding when you brush and floss your teeth. This is because bacteria have infected the gum tissues, causing an immune response in your body. You’re effectively treating the cause of your gum disease by taking antibiotics to treat the infection.
You may also notice that your gums bleed when you eat certain foods or beverages. This is due to how your body responds to the bacteria in your mouth. When you don’t treat this disease, it can ultimately cause tooth loss. Therefore, treating this condition with antibiotics before the disease progresses and causes more severe problems is essential.
Along with these warning signs, it’s also important to watch for loose teeth, pain in the mouth, and reddened tissue. All these symptoms are signs that you likely have some form of gum disease progressing. Left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Treating the disease early can help avoid these problems.
Depending on its severity, your dentist can treat your gum disease with several treatment options. The first line of treatment for most mild to moderate cases of gum disease is deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. This treatment removes the plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and along your gum line and the roots of your teeth so your gums can begin to heal correctly. In severe cases of gum disease, your dentist may need to recommend surgical treatments. Surgical treatments can include pocket reduction, gum graft, or flap surgery. These surgeries are usually for receding gums that expose the tooth's root. Regenerative procedures such as bone grafts are also an option if your dentist determines that you have lost bone mass due to advanced gum disease.
To learn more about periodontal cleanings and which treatment options may be best for you, visit N STREET DENTAL at 125 East N Street, Benicia, CA 94510, or call (707) 745-0636 to schedule an appointment.
