Gum Disease

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is a common gum infection that damages the soft tissue supporting your teeth. When left untreated, gum disease can destroy the bone surrounding your teeth and eventually cause permanent tooth loss. That’s why seeking treatment when you first notice signs of gum disease is essential. 

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

Common signs and symptoms associated with gum disease include:

• Bright red, tender, swollen gums
• Bleeding gums
• Bad breath
• Receding gums
• Pain with chewing
• Loose teeth or tooth loss
• New spaces between your teeth

In comparison, healthy gums are light pink and fit tightly around your teeth. If you suspect you have gum disease, visit Pleasant Family Dentistry right away.

What are the risk factors for gum disease?

Anybody can develop gum disease, but some factors increase your risk. Examples include:

• Older age
• Poor oral hygiene
• Family history of gum disease
• Genetics
• Smoking
• Chewing tobacco
• Hormone changes

Other risk factors include recreational drug use, obesity, inadequate nutrition, some medications, and certain chronic diseases.

How does my dentist diagnose gum disease?

To diagnose gum disease and determine which treatment is best, your Pleasant Family Dentistry provider reviews your symptoms and oral health history. They examine your gums and teeth, measure your gums, and take dental X-rays to determine the severity of gum disease.

What are my gum disease treatment options?

Pleasant Family Dentistry offers non-surgical gum disease treatments. Examples include:

Scaling

During scaling, your dental provider removes bacteria and tartar from tooth surfaces beneath your gum line. They might use a laser, ultrasonic device, or other specialized dental instruments. 

Root planing

Root planing helps your dentist smooth tooth root surfaces, discouraging future bacteria, and tartar buildup. The procedure helps your gums heal and reattach to tooth surfaces. 

Antibiotics

Oral or topical antibiotics can get rid of bacterial infections. Your dentist might recommend you use an antibiotic mouth rinse or gel in addition to, or in place of, oral antibiotics.

Don’t let gum disease progress and cause irreversible oral health problems, such as permanent tooth loss. Schedule an appointment with Pleasant Family Dentistry by phone or book online today.