Gum disease, or Periodontitis, is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults, which is why it’s taken very seriously at our Dental Clinic. In most cases, it is preventable with good oral hygiene, which is one of the reasons regular visits for dental checkups are so important. If your gums bleed easily when you brush or bite into hard foods, you may have gum disease.
What Is Gum Disease, Exactly?
Gum disease is a serious infection that damages the tissues and bone supporting the teeth. Swollen sore gums, redness, and bleeding are common signs of the early stage of gum disease. Also known as Gingivitis, early gum disease can usually be reversed by improving oral hygiene. However, if left untreated, the disease can accelerate into a more serious condition called Periodontitis. Patients should be aware that this latter stage can cause the gums to loosen from the teeth, and supporting bone to erode, resulting in eventual irreversible bone loss and associated difficulties with eating and speaking
What Causes Gum Disease Patients?
One of the main causes of gum disease is plaque, or rather the bacteria contained within the plaque. This sticky film coats the teeth, and failure to remove it with brushing causes it to harden into calculus. When this occurs, it triggers a reaction in the body that causes an infection in the gums that can lead to gum disease.
Other causes of gum disease patients can include genetics and smoking. Some medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease can also put an individual at higher risk of gum disease.
Gum Disease Treatment
At Beyond Dental Care, our Dentists always strive for a non-invasive approach to gum disease whenever possible. We recommend treatments such as a dental clean to rid the mouth of plaque and bacteria, combined with improving oral hygiene at home, and attending regular dental check-ups.
Unfortunately, this form of gum disease treatment isn’t effective when gum disease has worsened into Periodontal Disease. Instead, oral surgery in the form of the following may be required:
- Pocket reduction (flap) procedures
- Bone grafts; and
- Regenerative procedures
Our Dentist will discuss your best treatment options during your consultation.
Is It Time To Have Your Gums Checked?
For effective gum disease treatment, look no further than Beyond Dental Care. We provide a variety of gum disease treatments tailored to your individual needs. Contact us today to make an appointment.
What To Expect Following Gum Disease Treatment
Patients should know that to prevent gum disease from recurring, it’s very important to take care of their gums. This can be achieved by:
- Daily brushing of the teeth for at least two minutes twice a day and flossing once daily
- Attending regular hygiene appointments to remove hardened plaque
Schedule appointment or Get in touch today.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
