Gum disease is among the most prevalent oral health problems in the United States, so if you’ve been told that you suffer from this condition you’re not alone. Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease can range from a simple inflammation of the gums to much more serious conditions that can cause major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth. At Zonies-Holgado Dental Associates we routinely treat patients from Cherry Hill and the surrounding area for gum disease as well as help them improve their overall oral health.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues and bones that surround and support the teeth. Normally beginning with the inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), untreated this condition can lead to periodontitis and tooth loss.
Gum disease is caused by the accumulation of plaque on the teeth. Over time, the bacteria in our mouths, combined with food particles and other materials form a sticky colorless plaque that sticks to our teeth. Normally brushing and flossing can get rid of plaque, however if it’s not removed it can become tartar which typical brushing cannot remove. The result is the first sign of gum disease, gingivitis.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums due to the accumulation of plaque and tartar. Bacteria that grow due to the presence of these materials irritate the gums causing soreness and discoloration, as well as occasional bleeding. Normally gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease and can usually be treated by improving your oral health regimen using daily brushing and flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist.
What is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis occurs when Gingivitis is not treated promptly. Normally the gum tissue is irritated to the point where it pulls away from the teeth to form spaces, or pockets, that become infected. As the infection grows below the gum line, toxins created by the harmful bacteria and the body’s natural response, when fighting an infection, will damage the gums, bones and tissue that support the teeth, which can result in tooth loss.
Understandably, the impact of gum disease can be severe. Researchers have found that periodontal disease and other health problems such as cardiovascular disease, stroke and bacterial pneumonia are associated. Studies also suggest that pregnant women who have periodontal disease may be at increased risk for delivering a pre-term and/or low birth weight baby. Although more studies are needed, researchers are looking into the role that the bacteria associated with periodontal disease may play in overall health. People with diabetes and smokers are also at increased risk for developing periodontal disease.
Gum Disease Symptoms
During the early stages of gum disease, it can often be difficult to determine that you may have a problem, however in time the symptoms can become noticeable. Some of the most detectable symptoms include:
Halitosis (Bad Breath) – Advanced gum disease has routinely been seen to cause chronic Halitosis, or bad breath. As the bacterial infection grows below the gum line, it generates a bad odor that has been demonstrated to produce mild to intense bad breath.
Receding Gums – A symptom frequently seen in adults over the age of 40, receding gums is a progressive condition that can be caused by gum disease. Referring to the exposure of the roots of the teeth, receding gums can be identified if your teeth appear longer than normal, are sensitive or exhibit a different color among other symptoms.
Bleeding Gums – Perhaps one of the most obvious indications of gum disease, bleeding gums occur when the gum is irritated and bleeds during routine activities like eating or brushing your teeth. This is a common sign that there is something wrong and suggests that an oral examination may be warranted.
Tooth Pain – Gum disease is a progressive condition, which will ultimately lead to tooth pain if it remains unchecked. If other symptoms have not been seen, tooth pain can often be causes by undiagnosed gum disease.
Gum Disease Treatment
Although the severity of gum disease can vary, the main goal of any treatment is to control the infection. To start, we’ll review your oral care regimen and make recommendations for improvement that may include the elimination of smoking and the use of some medications. Afterward we’ll focus on treatments specific to the severity of your condition.
Gingivitis Treatment
Thankfully, if caught early gingivitis can be treated simply with a tooth cleaning and improved oral hygiene. A typical teeth cleaning includes the removal of dental plaque, polishing the teeth and an inspection for developing conditions. Paired with daily teeth brushing and flossing, this gingivitis treatment is easy and effective.
Periodontitis Treatment
If the gum disease has developed into periodontitis, there are a number of treatment methods that can be used depending on your individual situation. A deep cleaning can be performed using scaling and root planing. Scaling involves the removal of tartar from teeth, while root planing eliminates rough spots on the tooth root that may contribute to the development of harmful bacteria. In addition, medication may be prescribed and in severe cases a surgical procedure may be necessary.
If you or a family member feel that you are exhibiting symptoms that suggest mild or severe gum disease, Contact Us to help you determine what your best treatment options may be.
