Gum Disease

What is gum disease?

Gum disease, also called periodontitis, is an infection affecting your gums (the soft tissues surrounding your tooth roots). When left untreated, gum disease can lead to gum recession, bone loss, loose teeth, and permanent tooth loss. See the experts at Smile Bright Dental at the first sign of gum disease to avoid worsening dental complications.

Which symptoms does gum disease cause?

Gum disease can lead to:

• Receding gumline
• Bright red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
• Changes in your bite
• Bad breath
• Loose permanent teeth
• Tooth loss
• Pus between your gums and teeth
• Pain during chewing
• Tooth shifting
• New spaces between your teeth

Minor gum disease is far easier to treat than its advanced forms. Seeing your dentist every six months for routine dental cleanings and exams helps detect gum disease early to avoid complications.

What are the risk factors for gum disease?

Gum disease risk factors include:

• Plaque and tartar buildup
• Poor oral hygiene habits
• Skipped dental appointments
• Family history of gum disease
• Chewing tobacco or smoking
• Hormonal changes
• Poor nutrition
• Obesity
• Some medications
• Chronic diseases like arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and diabetes
• Drug use

Gum disease is linked to some chronic conditions. The bacteria that cause periodontitis can enter your bloodstream through the gum tissue, causing bacteria-driven problems throughout the body.

How is gum disease diagnosed?

Diagnosing gum disease requires discussing your symptoms and medical history, examining your teeth and gums, and reviewing your dental X-rays. Your provider also measures your gum pockets, the spaces between your teeth and gums, to look for signs of recession.

How is gum disease treated?

Treating gum disease at Smile Bright Dental depends on the severity of your disease. The team will suggest one or more of the following:

• Healthy lifestyle changes
• Deep dental cleaning (scaling and root planing)
• Topical antibiotics
• Oral antibiotics
• Perio Defend
• Tissue-stimulating proteins
• Surgery

Examples of oral surgery used to treat gum disease include pocket reduction surgery, gum grafting, bone grafts, and guided tissue regeneration to restore lost bone and gum tissue.

It’s helpful to brush your teeth twice daily, use an antibacterial mouthwash if asked to, floss daily, avoid smoking, and see the Smile Bright Dental experts at least every six months for dental cleanings and exams.

Schedule a gum disease evaluation at Smile Bright Dental by calling the office or booking a visit online today.