Recognizing Gum Disease

Gum disease is an oral health condition that is both highly preventable and highly destructive. It is very important that gum disease be addressed and treated at its earliest stage before it wreaks serious havoc on your smile health, including tooth loss and bone loss. Gum disease (in some form) affects up to 75% of people in the developed world. Unfortunately, only about 2% of these sufferers actually seek professional treatment. Not knowing the warning signs of gum disease can make it difficult to know when it is time to call your dentist. Therefore, educate yourself on the following gum disease symptoms so that early intervention can be initiated:

• Gums that bleed easily
• Red, tender and/or swollen gums
• Appearance of pus between teeth
• Loose teeth or gums that seem to be pulling away from teeth
• Chronic bad breath or bad taste in your mouth
• Change in your bite

It is important to note that not all gum disease sufferers experience symptoms. That’s why it is crucial that you visit your dentist for routine dental care. At your six-month check-up, your gums will be carefully monitored and measured. Treating early gum disease, such as gingivitis, can most often be accomplished by a deep cleaning. More advanced gum disease may require laser gum therapy or even surgery in severe cases.

When it comes to preventing gum disease, it is helpful to understand how it develops. When plaque is allowed to accumulate along (or beneath) your gum line, it hardens into tarter and causes an infection within your gums. Remember that brushing alone will not remove plaque; you’ll need to use your floss to clean within the gum line. Furthermore, once the plaque hardens, only a professional dental cleaning can eradiate this stubborn buildup.

Dr. Wayne Suway values the importance of treating gum disease. Gum disease is not only the leading cause of tooth loss, but it can compromise your overall health. In addition, if you’re planning on replacing missing teeth with dental implants, you’ll need to get your gum disease under control before you can qualify for the procedure. Call us today to learn more about our leading gum disease treatments to ensure your smile health is protected best.