gum disease

Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems adults face, but it can begin at just about any age. Gum disease often develops slowly and without causing any pain. Sometimes you may not notice any signs until the disease is serious and you are in danger of losing teeth. The good news is that gum disease can almost always be prevented. If it starts, it can be treated and can even be turned around or reversed in its early stages.

Resulting Problems

If gum disease is not treated, you can have gums that are always red, sore and puffy. You can also get a painful infection (called and abscess) in the area between your teeth and gums, and even lose your teeth. Without enough gum tissue and bone to hold your teeth in place, they can become loose and fall out. Nobody wants to have these things happen to them. With regular care, nobody has to.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is the major cause of tooth loss in adults. Mainly caused by plaque, it is usually painless. Regular visits to the dentist are essential to timely diagnosis and treatment. Early to moderate periodontal disease may exhibit few, if any, symptoms. Warning signs of advanced periodontal disease may include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, permanent teeth that are loose or separating, as well as changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite. There are many forms and stages of periodontal disease. The most common are as follows:

Healthy gums and bone anchor teeth firmly in place. Gums are firm
and pink.

Gingivitis is mild inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup. Gums may bleed upon probing. An anti-microbial mouth rinse may be prescribed.

Periodontis is a gum infection that, if left untreated, damages the bone and supporting tissues. Your gum separates from the tooth and the bone level deteriorates.

Advanced periodontis causes gums to recede farther and separate.
Pus may develop, bone loss continues and your teeth may loosen or
fall out.

Treatments

Your dentist will examine you for periodontal disease during each routine checkup. A periodontal probe will be used to determine if there is any breakdown in the gum tissue and attachment or if pockets have developed between you gums and teeth. Treatment will depend upon the type of periodontal disease and how far the condition has progressed. Treatment options include:

Scaling, which cleans the teeth to remove tartar deposits above and below the gum line.

Root planing, which smoothes the round surfaces, as well as removing tartar deposits below the gum line. Local anesthesia may be used for your comfort.

Oral irrigation directs anti-microbial (anti-plaque) liquid below the gum line to flush out and kill germs to allow the regeneration of healthy tissue.

If deep pockets are found and bone has been destroyed, your dentist may recommend periodontal surgery. A proper program of brushing, flossing and regular professional cleanings will help fight plaque accumulation and gum disease, and help you to keep your teeth for a lifetime.