Studies show that, alarmingly, 85% of adult Americans have some form of gum disease. Untreated, this can lead to tooth loss, and it can also contribute to overall health issues. Two ways to prevent and treat gum disease, though, is to understand the contributors and the different stages of the condition. As you read on, your dentist in Gahanna provides the information you need.
Gum Disease Explained
The main contributor to gum disease is the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth. If unaddressed, hundreds of them eventually form a super-structure called plaque. The sticky, clear substance quietly works its way beneath the gums and can cause inflammation, which is called gum disease.
Here are some of the more common symptoms of the disease:
- Tenderness
- Unpleasant breath
- Gums that easily bleed
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Red or white spots on the gums
The urgency with which you respond to the above warning signs will determine how well you recover from gum disease.
Stage #1 – Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, and it’s considered the most favorable time to treat the condition. That’s because any damage done can typically be reversed at this point.
The remedy may simply be to make improvements in your oral hygiene and to maintain more frequent dental visits.
Stage #2 – Periodontitis
At this point, there may be irreversible damage to the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place. Additionally, pockets may start to develop beneath the gumline, which are places where food and plaque have become trapped.
Your dentist may recommend procedures like scaling and root planing to restore your oral health. The former involves the professional removing the plaque and bacteria that have formed pockets. The planing procedure is then used to smooth the roots of the teeth to prevent any new accumulation of bacteria.
Stage #3 – Advanced Periodontitis
If the bacteria are allowed to linger for too long, they can fully dissolve the roots and eventually lead to tooth loss. At this point, more aggressive forms of treatment may be needed, which could include complex surgical procedures.
Why Prevention is the Best Plan
The best way to treat gum disease is to avoid the situation. That is accomplished through preventive dentistry, which includes visiting your dentist every six months for check-ups and cleanings.
Along with practicing proper oral hygiene, which includes brushing and flossing your teeth at least two times a day, visiting your dentist regularly fortifies your oral health. Additionally, it helps to prevent serious health issues like heart attack, stroke, hypertension and Alzheimer’s disease – all of which have been found to be influenced by the growth of dental bacteria.
So to get on the road to better oral and overall health, contact your dentist today.
About the Author
Dr. Brooke Buller is a friendly and caring dentist who graduated with her Doctor of Dental Surgery from The Ohio State University. She helps patients both prevent and overcome gum disease at Claybrooke Dental of Gahanna, and she can be reached for more information through her website.