Gum disease is a serious condition that affects 42% of U.S. adults over 30.[1] However, most people with gum disease don’t even realize they have it, and delaying treatment can seriously risk their oral health. You can spot gum disease early by watching for subtle symptoms such as bad breath, gum sensitivity, or bleeding gums. Here’s what you should know about gum disease prevention and periodontal therapy in Albion.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, begins with bacteria buildup along the gumline.[2] This buildup initially causes inflammation, leading to a serious infection if left untreated. While the first symptoms of gum disease are minor, a severe infection can eventually lead to bone loss and tooth instability.[3]
Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease. You may be able to reverse gingivitis with simple improvements to your oral hygiene practices and a visit to your dentist. Periodontitis is the more advanced stage, where your gums can pull away from your teeth. At this point, you might need professional treatment to restore your oral health.
Don’t Ignore Persistent Bad Breath
One of the first signs of periodontal gum disease is bad breath.[4] Persistent bad breath indicates that you have large amounts of bacteria in your mouth that are giving off a foul odor. Bacteria can build up in gum pockets, leading to a significant shift in the smell of your breath.
If this is your only symptom, your gum disease will likely be in the earlier stages. Professional dental cleaning, including scaling and root planing, can remove bacteria and plaque buildup under the gumline. However, early detection is key to the success of these minimally invasive treatment options.
Watch for Bleeding and Tender Gums
As gum disease progresses, it can weaken gum tissue and lead to soreness, swelling, and bleeding.[2] It’s important to note that bleeding gums are not normal; they indicate that something is wrong with your oral health. If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, contact your dentist.
Early gum disease commonly involves tender and swollen gum tissue. As the immune system fights the bacteria, it causes inflammation that makes the gums uncomfortable. Swelling can eventually progress, causing more serious damage to the tissue.
Gum Recession Is a Clear Indicator of Gum Disease
More advanced gum disease may lead to noticeable gum recession. This is when gum tissue pulls away from your teeth, exposing the roots and creating larger gum pockets.[2] You may also notice that your teeth have become more sensitive to hot, cold, or sugary foods due to the exposed roots.
Gum recession can impact the appearance of your smile, but it’s also a serious oral health concern. It allows bacteria to penetrate deeper within the gumline, ultimately leading to loose teeth and even tooth loss. You may need gum surgery to restore your gumline, along with other periodontal therapy.
The Importance of Early Detection and Treatment
Early detection of gum disease provides the best long-term oral health outcomes. Untreated gum disease leads to serious complications over time, including tooth loss. Researchers have also linked gum disease to a wide range of health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes.[5]
While you should watch for key signs at home, you can trust your dentist to identify gum disease much more effectively. By recognizing gum disease before it progresses, you and your dentist can address it with lifestyle interventions and less invasive treatments like scaling and root planing. Routine visits to your dentist will make treatment and prevention easier and more straightforward.
Effective Prevention and Maintenance for Healthy Gums
You can take some essential steps at home to help prevent gum disease. Brushing your teeth and flossing twice daily helps manage the bacteria responsible for gum disease and tooth decay. Brush for at least four minutes, thoroughly covering all tooth surfaces.
A balanced diet, which includes many vitamins and minerals essential to good oral health, will also help prevent gum disease. Moreover, staying hydrated supports your mouth’s natural ability to combat bacteria with saliva, so remember to drink water throughout the day.
Expert Periodontal Therapy in Albion
Watching for key signs of gum disease can help you get the treatment you need when you need it. If you have any concerns about the condition of your gums, you can count on Albion Family Dental for periodontal therapy in Albion. We offer a variety of treatment options to prevent and treat gum disease. Contact us online or call 585-589-9044 to get started.
Sources:
[1] https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/periodontitis
[2] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21482-gum-periodontal-disease