Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums surrounding your teeth. Gum disease is one of the top reasons for tooth loss in adults, and because it is virtually pain-free, many patients do not know they have the disease. During each regular checkup, your dentist will check for signs of periodontal disease by measuring the space between your teeth and gums. If you suspect you have a form of gum disease, please reach out to Wambaugh Dental today at 281.501.7849.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque (a sticky form of bacteria that forms on the teeth). If the plaque is not removed (by flossing, brushing, and regular dental checkups), it will continue to build up and create toxins that can damage the gums. Periodontal disease forms just below the gum line and creates small pockets that separate the gums from the teeth. Periodontal disease has two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis
This is the early stage of gum disease when the gums become red and swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is treatable and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing.
Periodontitis
If left untreated, gingivitis will advance into periodontitis, and the gums and bone that support the teeth will become seriously and irreversibly damaged. Gums infected with periodontitis can cause teeth to become loose, fall out, or be removed by a dentist.
Risk Factors for Developing Gum Disease
Certain factors can increase a patient’s risk of developing a form of periodontal disease. A few of the risk factors may include:
- Smoking or using chewing tobacco
- Diabetes
- Certain types of medication such as steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, calcium channel blockers, and oral contraceptives
- Bridges that no longer fit properly
- Crooked teeth
- Old fillings
- Pregnancy
Can I Have Gum Disease and Not Know It?
It is possible to have gum disease without realizing it. Therefore it is critical to learn the symptoms and discuss your concerns with your dentist. For instance, some of the symptoms of gum disease may include:
- Gums that bleed easily
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
- Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- Any change in the fit of partial dentures
Is It Possible to Treat Gum Disease?
Treatments for gum disease can vary depending on the severity of each individual case. Typical treatments include:
- Periodontal surgery and laser gum surgery
- Dental implants
Preventing Gum Disease
Regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are important for maintaining your health and the health of your smile. You don’t have to lose teeth to periodontal disease, and by practicing good oral hygiene at home, you can significantly reduce your chances of ever getting gum disease. Remember to brush regularly, clean between your teeth, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular dental visits to help keep your smile healthy.
Contact Wambaugh Dental
Whether you are battling periodontal disease or gingivitis, our experts at Wambaugh Dental can help. Our team has several decades’ worth of experience addressing a wide array of dental concerns, giving us the tools necessary to treat these problems. We also offer a range of additional dental treatments, including:
- Preventative dental care
- Endodontic treatment
- Teeth whitening
- Cracked teeth treatment
- Pediatric dentistry services
Don’t let gum disease grow worse when there is treatment available. Reach out to Wambaugh Dental today by calling 281.501.7849, or contact us online for more information about gum disease treatment or to make your first appointment.