Did you know that periodontal (gum) disease impacts over 50 percent of American adults in some form? This condition can sneak up on you because it doesn't initially cause pain, and that's why routine preventive checkups and teeth cleanings with your Prairieville dentist are so important.
Today, we're raising awareness about gum disease by sharing what you should know about causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Read on!
What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
Gum disease is often tricky to notice on your own because there are not a lot of signs and symptoms at first. Early gum disease is known as gingivitis, and you may notice one or more of these symptoms if you're suffering from it:
- Red, irritated, or swollen gums
- Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
- Chronic bad breath you can't eliminate with brushing or by using a mouth rinse
If we detect gingivitis early, you may be able to reverse your condition with a thorough professional teeth cleaning and some upgrades to your home care routine.
Periodontitis, or advanced gum disease, is when the damage is occurring. In this phase, you may notice tooth mobility or pain and discomfort when chewing.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Generally, poor oral hygiene is the cause of gum disease, which is an infection of the gums and bone. The irritation and infection start when plaque and bacteria descend below the gumline.
Some other causes of gum disease can be certain medications, age, and genetics.
How Do We Treat Gum Disease?
Depending on your needs, if you suffer from periodontitis, our dentists may recommend the following:
- A deep cleaning—scaling and root planing removes the plaque and tartar buildup from below the gumline that is causing your infection
- Antibiotic therapy—Antibiotics applied to the diseased areas of your smile can help to combat the infection
- Gum surgery—If your gums have receded due to periodontitis, gum grafting may be necessary to protect the roots of your teeth from damage, decay, and infection
If you are noticing signs of gum disease or need to schedule your next dental checkup, contact your dentist in Baton Rouge at (225) 927-7545 to schedule.