Gum disease is a common oral health problem that affects a large number of people. Gum disease can cause redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums as well as bad breath, tooth decay, and in severe cases, tooth loss. Fortunately, gum disease is treatable, and there are several ways to get treatment for the condition.
At Soft Touch Dental, we offer pain-free periodic evaluations, professional cleaning, and other types of gum disease treatment in Florissant, MO. We are vastly experienced with gum disease and its treatment, and we would like to share our knowledge with you. Here are some things you need to know about gum disease.
What You Should Know About Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gum tissues surrounding the teeth. It is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults and can lead to other serious health complications if left untreated.
Preventing gum disease starts with good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing daily, and getting regular dental checkups and cleanings. Avoiding tobacco products and eating a healthy diet can also help prevent gum disease.
Causes of Gum Diseases
Several factors contribute to the development of gum disease, and understanding these causes is critical in preventing and treating gum disease.
- Poor oral hygiene: When people do not brush and floss their teeth regularly, food particles and bacteria can build up in the mouth and form plaque. Plaque is a sticky film of leftover food particles that forms on the teeth and gums. It can cause the development of gum disease if not removed through regular cleaning.
- Smoking: Smoking weakens the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight off infections. The chemicals in cigarettes damage gum tissue, causing it to recede. Tobacco also reduces the body’s healing ability by slowing down blood flow, which causes inflammation in the gums, leading to gum disease.
- Genetics: Some people are more susceptible to gum disease regardless of their oral hygiene routine because of inherited characteristics, such as a weak immune system, making them at risk of bacterial infection.
How To Know If You Have Gum Disease: Signs and Symptoms
Gum diseases are usually painless, silent infections that often go unnoticed until they become severe. Unfortunately, most people are unaware they have gum disease until it is too late, and the damage has been done. If you suspect that you have gum disease symptoms, here are some factors to consider and some of the things you should look for when assessing your oral health.
Bleeding Gums
If you notice blood in your saliva or on your toothbrush when you brush your teeth, it is a clear indication that your gum tissues are inflamed and irritated. Bleeding gums are usually the result of the accumulation of plaque and tartar around the gum line, which causes the gums to become red, tender, and swollen.
Loose Teeth
One of the most serious symptoms of gum disease is loose teeth. As the supporting bone tissue is lost, the teeth become unstable and can move around in their sockets. This can eventually lead to tooth loss if the disease is not treated.
Sensitive Teeth
Pain or sensitivity in the teeth and gums is another symptom of gum disease. As the gums become inflamed and tender, it can be painful when they are touched or when pressure is applied. You may also experience sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures or when chewing.
If you suspect that you have gum disease, schedule an appointment with our dentists in Florissant, MO, Dr. Christopher Weber and Dr. Azaryas Mandefro, to prevent further damage.
How To Treat Gum Diseases
Gum diseases have been known to cause discomfort, pain, and in many cases, tooth loss. Therefore, it is crucial to understand how to treat gum diseases effectively. Below are some ways to best treat your gum disease.
- Scaling and root planing are effective treatments for gum disease. It involves removing the plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gum line using a scaler and smoothing out the surface of the tooth roots. It is done to remove any rough spots where bacteria may be hiding. This procedure helps to eliminate the bacteria that cause gum diseases.
- Medication may be prescribed to treat gum diseases. Antibiotics are commonly used to eliminate bacterial infections that cause gum disease. Additionally, antimicrobial mouthwashes or gels may be recommended to reduce the bacteria in the mouth and promote healing.
- Maintaining good oral hygiene is critical in preventing and treating gum disease. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing regularly helps to remove plaque and prevent gum disease. Additionally, using an antiseptic mouthwash can help kill bacteria that cause gum disease.
Gum Disease Treatment in Florissant, MO
The severity of gum disease varies from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis, which can significantly damage the gum tissues and the supporting bones. Therefore, prompt treatment of gum diseases is crucial to prevent tooth loss and maintain overall oral health.
At Soft Touch Dental, we provide exceptional gum disease treatment in Florissant, MO, and take preventative measures to maintain oral hygiene and prevent gum diseases. Our dentists use different dental procedures to diagnose and evaluate the extent of the gum damage.
Our highest priority is to enhance your smile, restore your confidence, and take care of your oral health! Contact us today to treat your gum disease and restore your beautiful smile.