by Dr. Erin Elliott | 27 July, 2024
As a trusted Post Falls dentist, we at Post Falls Family Dental are committed to providing our patients with the best care possible. One of the most critical aspects of dental health that we focus on is gum disease. This blog post aims to shed light on gum disease, its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and why regular dental visits are crucial in preventing and managing this condition.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults, but because gum disease is usually painless, you may not know you have it.
Gum disease progresses in stages, starting with gingivitis and potentially advancing to periodontitis if left untreated.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. It involves inflammation of the gums, causing them to become red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. At this stage, the damage can still be reversed with proper dental care and hygiene.
If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis. This stage involves more severe gum issues, including the formation of pockets between the gums and teeth. These pockets fill with plaque, tartar, and bacteria, leading to infection. Over time, periodontitis can result in bone loss and tooth loss.
Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. However, several other factors can increase the risk of developing gum disease.
Failing to brush and floss regularly allows plaque to build up on your teeth, leading to gum disease.
Smoking and using tobacco products significantly increase the risk of gum disease and make treatment more challenging.
Changes in hormones, particularly during pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and menstruation, can make gums more sensitive and vulnerable to gum disease.
Diseases like diabetes, cancer, and HIV can affect the condition of your gums. These conditions can lower the body's resistance to infection, making gum disease more severe.
Certain medications can reduce saliva flow, which protects the gums and teeth. Without adequate saliva, the mouth is more vulnerable to infections like gum disease.
Knowing the symptoms of gum disease can help you seek treatment early. Common symptoms include:
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to see your Post Falls dentist promptly for an evaluation.
Treating gum disease involves a combination of professional dental care and good oral hygiene practices at home. Here are some common treatments:
During a routine cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and beneath your gums.
This deep-cleaning procedure involves scraping away plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line and smoothing out the rough spots on the tooth roots to remove bacteria.
Surgical Treatments
For more advanced cases of periodontitis, flap surgery may be necessary. This procedure involves lifting back the gums to remove tartar deposits and then suturing them back in place to fit snugly around the teeth.
If gum disease has destroyed bone or gum tissue, a dentist may recommend grafting procedures to promote new bone or gum growth.
Regular dental visits play a vital role in preventing and managing gum disease. Here are three key reasons why you should see your Post Falls dentist regularly:
During regular check-ups, your dentist can detect early signs of gum disease and other oral health issues before they become severe. Early detection allows for simpler and more effective treatments, potentially reversing the damage caused by gingivitis.
For more information on the recommended frequency of dental visits, check out our detailed blog post here.
Regular professional cleanings are essential in removing plaque and tartar that cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone. These cleanings help prevent gum disease and keep your mouth healthy.
Explore our preventative dentistry services to learn more about how we can help maintain your oral health.
Your dentist can provide personalized advice and recommendations based on your specific oral health needs. This guidance can include tips on brushing and flossing techniques, dietary advice, and recommendations for oral care products.
At Post Falls Family Dental, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health. We offer a range of services to treat and manage gum disease, including:
Our restorative dentistry services are designed to repair and restore the function and appearance of your teeth. Whether you need fillings, crowns, or more advanced treatments, we have you covered.
Preventative care is the cornerstone of good oral health. Regular check-ups, cleanings, and patient education are key components of our preventative dentistry services.
We believe that informed patients are better equipped to maintain their oral health. Our team provides comprehensive education on the causes, symptoms, and treatment of gum disease, as well as tips for maintaining a healthy smile at home.
If you're experiencing symptoms of gum disease or it's been a while since your last dental check-up, don't wait. Schedule an appointment with your trusted Post Falls dentist at Post Falls Family Dental today. Our experienced team is here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
Contact us here to book your appointment or learn more about our services. Together, we can combat gum disease and ensure your oral health for years to come.