If you have dealt with issues such as chronic bad breath or bleeding while brushing, you may be experiencing early symptoms of gum disease. While many people dismiss these symptoms, believing they are normal, they actually indicate there is a problem in the mouth. The good news is that with early intervention and treatment for these symptoms, they can often be reversed before they cause permanent damage.
Gum disease is inflammation and infection of the soft tissue in the mouth. It will not resolve on its own and will continue to worsen until treatment has stopped the progression. If the condition is caught in its earliest stage, gingivitis, treatment is conservative and highly effective. Once the infection is allowed to progress, it can cause bone and gum tissue loss, and loss of teeth. Additionally, the bacteria from gum disease infections can travel through the bloodstream, putting patients at risk for other health conditions.
At Pure Gold Professionals in Dentistry, we have a deep understanding of gum disease and the havoc that it can wreak on a person’s oral health and total body wellness. During every routine dental exam, we look very closely for early signs of gum disease such as redness or inflammation of the gums or the formation of pockets between the gums and teeth. If gum disease is discovered, treatment is based on how advanced the condition has become.
If there is minimal inflammation and redness, we may simply suggest a professional deep cleaning along with an improvement in at-home care and increased dental visits. If the condition has advanced, we may have to begin looking at options such as scaling and root planing. If there is bone loss, a grafting procedure may be necessary to repair the jawbone. Additionally, any teeth lost to gum disease will need to be replaced with a dental restoration such as a bridge or dental implant.
The very best method of treating gum disease is to practice proper oral hygiene. Taking care of the teeth and gums with regular brushing and flossing along with twice yearly dental check-ups can help you avoid the disease altogether. If you are in Redlands and want to know more about gum disease and its treatment, call us today at [phone].