Gum disease, better described as periodontal disease, attacks the gums and bone that support the teeth. If plaque and calculus are not removed from the areas around the tooth, they begin to destroy the gums and bone. This is characterized by red, swollen or bleeding gums.
Four out of five people have gum disease and dont know it!
Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease:
Bleeding gums Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss.
Loose teeth Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone).
New spacing between teeth Caused by bone loss.
Persistent bad breath Caused by bacteria in the mouth.
Pus around the teeth and gums Sign that there is an infection present.
Receding gums Loss of gum around a tooth.
Red and puffy gums Gums should never be red or swollen.
Tenderness or Discomfort Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.
Treatment
If the disease is caught in the early stages of gingivitis, and no damage has been done, one to two regular cleanings will be recommended. You will also be given instructions on improving your daily oral hygiene habits and having regular dental cleanings.
If the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planning (deep cleaning) will be recommended. It is usually done one quadrant of the mouth at a time while the area is numb. In this procedure, tartar, plaque, and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line (scaling) and rough spots on root surfaces are made smooth (planning). This procedure helps gum tissue to heal and pockets to shrink. Medications, special medicated mouth rinses, and an electric tooth brush may be recommended to help control infection and healing.
If the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planning, periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depths, making teeth easier to clean. Your dentist may also recommend that you see a Periodontist (specialist of the gums and supporting bone).
Not only is it the number one reason for tooth loss, research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk during pregnancy.
