Gum disease is a widespread condition that affects millions of individuals, often without them even realizing it. Left untreated, it can lead to serious oral health issues like tooth loss, bone damage, and even systemic health concerns. If you’re dealing with signs of gum disease, such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, seeking treatment from a periodontist is essential. But how exactly does a periodontist treat gum disease?
At Periodontal Associates, we believe that education is the first step to better oral health. That’s why we’re breaking down the various treatments and procedures periodontists use to help patients combat gum disease and restore their smiles.
Early Detection and Diagnosis
The first step in treating gum disease is accurate diagnosis. Periodontists are specialists trained to catch gum disease in its earliest stages before it becomes a more significant problem. During your visit, the periodontist will perform a thorough examination of your gums, teeth, and jawbone. This examination might include periodontal probing to measure the depth of gum pockets and X-rays to detect bone loss.
Each diagnosis is tailored to the individual, ensuring that we address the unique severity and progression of the disease. By identifying gum disease early, we can often use less invasive treatments to restore your oral health.
Scaling and Root Planing
For mild to moderate cases of gum disease, the most common and effective treatment is scaling and root planing. This deep-cleaning procedure goes beyond regular dental cleanings.
- Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline, where it builds up and promotes bacterial growth.
- Root Planing smooths out the tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to reattach and helping your gums heal and reattach to your teeth.
This non-surgical procedure is a first-line treatment that can significantly reduce gum inflammation and prevent further progression of gum disease. Many patients notice a marked improvement in their gum health following the procedure.
Advanced Treatments for Severe Gum Disease
When gum disease progresses to a more advanced stage, known as periodontitis, surgical and regenerative treatments may be necessary. Periodontists have specialized training in procedures aimed at repairing the damage caused by periodontitis.
- Pocket Reduction Surgery: Also known as flap surgery, this procedure reduces the size of gum pockets to prevent further bacteria buildup. It allows for easier cleaning and maintenance at home.
- Bone Grafting and Soft Tissue Grafting: These procedures restore lost bone or gum tissue, providing support for the teeth and preventing further deterioration. This regenerative approach not only halts the disease’s progression but helps to rebuild the foundation of your oral health.
- Laser Therapy: Using advanced dental lasers, periodontists can precisely target and remove infected tissue while promoting faster healing. Laser therapy is often less invasive than traditional surgery, leading to shorter recovery times.
The choice of treatment depends on individual needs, and periodontists work closely with patients to craft a personalized care plan.
Comprehensive Support for Long-Term Health
Treating gum disease isn’t just about addressing the immediate symptoms; it’s about preventing recurrence and maintaining long-term oral health. Periodontists play a critical role in helping patients adopt practices to preserve their improved gum health.
Education on proper brushing and flossing techniques, combined with professional maintenance cleanings, ensures you can keep gum disease at bay. Many periodontists also collaborate with general dentists to monitor your oral health, ensuring a team-based approach.
By partnering with a specialist and staying proactive about your oral care, you can protect your gums and teeth for years to come. To learn more, visit our page on periodontics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontics
What does a periodontist do that a general dentist doesn’t?
While general dentists focus on overall oral health, periodontists specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease. They also perform advanced procedures like dental implants and bone grafting, making them the go-to experts for complex oral health issues.
Is gum disease reversible?
Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is reversible with proper care and treatment. However, once gum disease progresses to periodontitis, the damage to bone and tissue becomes permanent. That said, periodontists can manage periodontitis to prevent further damage and restore as much oral health as possible.
At Periodontal Associates, we are dedicated to improving the oral health and quality of life of our patients in Middlesex County, MA. With decades of experience and cutting-edge treatments, our team is here to help restore your healthy smile. Schedule an appointment today!
Periodontal disease is a condition that impacts the health of your gums due to the buildup of plaque and bacteria. If allowed to progress, it can threaten your oral health and eventually lead to tooth loss. Thankfully, intervening with treatment early allows you to reverse or halt its progression. This article explores how it is done.
About Periodontal Disease
There are different stages of periodontal disease. The earlier you take action, the greater chance you have of being able to reverse the damage.
In its earliest form, gingivitis, the gums are often red, swollen, and bleed when brushing or flossing. Here is where it can be totally reversed with the help of good oral hygiene and professional care.
Once the disease progresses to periodontitis or advanced periodontitis, steps can be taken to improve oral health and halt its progression. While you may not be able to fully reverse it at this stage, you can keep the disease from getting worse.
How to Reverse Periodontal Disease
So, how is periodontal disease treated? How can you reverse it? There are a few steps you can take to improve your oral health.
Give Your Oral Hygiene Routine a Boost
To reduce the risk of bacterial infections that cause and feed periodontal disease, you have to properly care for your teeth and gums. It’s no surprise that one of the best things you can do to help reverse early-stage periodontal disease is to begin practicing good habits when caring for your oral health.
- Brush thoroughly twice a day using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. This will help to remove plaque and bacteria before they build up.
- Floss every day to reach the areas your toothbrush can’t.
- Swish and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to remove anything harmful left behind.
Have Routine Cleanings
Visiting your dentist regularly is so important for reversing periodontal disease. It doesn’t matter how well you care for your teeth, professional cleanings just take it to the next level. They can uncover areas where your brushing and flossing have missed, giving you a greater chance of being free and clear of plaque and tartar buildup.
You should have one of these cleanings at least every six months. However, if you are battling periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend you visit more frequently.
Undergo Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are highly effective procedures for those with more advanced periodontal disease. This treatment gives your gums a deep cleaning by removing plaque and tartar below the gumline where it usually forms pockets.
Scaling removes all of this buildup while the root planing smooths out the roots and allows the gums to fit smoothly against the tooth once again.
Engage in Healthy Habits
Developing some healthy habits can have a positive impact on your oral health. For instance, eating a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients can support your immune system and strengthen your teeth. Limiting sugary foods can reduce your risk of plaque buildup.
And, of course, if you are a smoker or use tobacco in any form, stop. Not only does it weaken your immune system, but it can also make it harder for your gums to heal.
Reverse Your Periodontal Disease at Periodontal Associates
If you are interested in improving your oral health and reducing the impacts of periodontal disease, the professionals at Periodontal Associates can help.
Contact us today to book an appointment at one of our two convenient locations: Framingham 508-875-6185 or Newton 617-964-6185.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is caused by plaque buildup that leads to gum infections. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, underlying health conditions, and genetics can all be contributing factors.
Does scaling and root planing hurt?
Local anesthetic is typically used for the procedure so that you do not feel anything, but once it wears off, you may have some mild discomfort and soreness. Over-the-counter pain relievers work great at providing relief.
Periodontal disease is a progressive condition with symptoms that worsen over time. Over 47 percent of all American adults aged 30 and older have periodontal disease. The condition starts with minor symptoms known as gingivitis, but it can lead to tooth loss when it goes unchecked.
This blog will share the symptoms of periodontal disease from mild to severe. Patients who notice these symptoms should speak to their dentist about reducing their risk of complications.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
- Swollen gums
- Red gums
- Gums that bleed or feel tender to the touch
- Teeth that are sensitive to heat or cold
- Gums that pull away from the teeth or recede
- Changes in dental bite
- Painful chewing
- Loose teeth
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Tartar is the product of bacteria and food particles left to harden on the teeth. When tartar or calculus builds up along, and under the gum line, gums become red and swollen. Bacterial waste products cause irritation and infection.
Stages of Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis
If you have gingivitis, you may not know it. Many people believe that bleeding when brushing or flossing is normal. However, these subtle symptoms can mean a more significant problem is coming.
Patients with gingivitis will also observe that their gums are red and possibly swollen. They may experience heat and cold sensitivity. In advanced cases, they may feel tenderness or soreness.
Fortunately, most cases of gingivitis are reversible if you have excellent home hygiene. Brush and floss as instructed, and receive a professional cleaning. You may want to switch to an electric toothbrush to remove plaque more effectively.
Periodontitis
If patients leave gingivitis alone or overlook the symptoms, it will progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis has stages that progress as follows:
- Moderate Symptoms
- At this stage, the support structure around the teeth have suffered irreversible damage. Deep pockets form between the teeth and gum tissue, allowing food, bacteria, and plaque to collect. Gums begin to recede, altering the patient’s appearance. The patient may have bad breath that does not respond to treatment.
- Severe Symptoms
- Teeth become loose due to further breakdown of their supporting structures. The patient’s dental bite may suffer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Disease
Can I prevent periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is preventable in most patients. If you practice excellent oral hygiene, tartar will not have a chance to accumulate and damage your gums.
What are some risk factors for periodontal disease?
Certain habits and conditions raise your chances of developing this problem:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Alcohol use and smoking
- Type 2 diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Insufficient vitamin D and calcium in the diet
- Excess body weight
Contact Periodontal Associates
If you have any symptoms listed in this article, you must take action to save your teeth. Please discuss this condition with your dentist and formulate a plan to control periodontal disease. With prompt attention, you can preserve your smile in the long term.
Contact us at our convenient Metro West locations in Framingham and Newton Centre today.
Chronic periodontitis affects many people throughout the world, but most people don’t even know they have it until it has reached an advanced stage. According to the CDC, close to 50 percent of people over the age of 30 have some form of periodontitis. While most people understand the importance of brushing their teeth, they might not be aware of the consequences that even mild gum disease can have on their health. Learn more about periodontal disease, and its effects below to see why it’s so important to visit your dentist regularly and make healthy dental habits an everyday part of your life.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a type of dental disease that affects the tissues around your teeth. These tissues are called the periodontium. They include the gum (gingiva), the cementum, and the alveolar bone. If not treated, this type of infection can lead to tooth loss and serious health problems such as heart disease and diabetes.
Causes of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is caused by plaque. Plaque is a sticky substance that collects on teeth and gums, causing bacteria to thrive and release toxins that can cause inflammation. These toxins can penetrate the gum tissue, leading to bone loss and eventually tooth loss as well.
There are three stages of periodontal disease: gingivitis, moderate periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. The most common stage is gingivitis, and it has no symptoms other than bad breath. Moderate periodontitis has more symptoms, including bleeding gums, redness around the teeth, swollen or tender gingival tissues, and loose teeth. Advanced periodontitis can cause toothaches / gum tenderness due to bone deterioration; you may also have difficulty chewing because your teeth become loose.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
A person with periodontal disease may experience a number of symptoms, including:
- Mouth soreness or tenderness
- Bad breath
- Red, swollen and bleeding gums
- Receding gum line or teeth (loose teeth)
- Pus between the teeth and gums
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
You can prevent periodontal disease by taking good care of your oral hygiene through brushing and flossing daily and regularly visiting your dentist. More advanced periodontal disease can be treated by your dentist/periodontist using deep cleaning methods, medication, or corrective surgery. Your dentist will work with you to find a treatment that suits you best.
Advanced Stages Of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease causes your gums to recede, making it difficult for teeth to stay in place. As the disease progresses, your teeth will eventually become loose and may even fall out. This can affect your self-esteem, and you might experience difficulty speaking or eating. Not only does periodontal disease affect your mouth, but it can lead to more serious problems like heart disease or stroke because inflammation from the gums can travel through the bloodstream.
Questions About Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal Associates is a full-service periodontal practice with two locations in Middlesex County, MA. If you have questions about periodontal disease or would like to book a consultation, request an appointment online today.
Despite being largely preventable, nearly 50% of adults over the age of 30 have some form of periodontal disease. By age 65, more than 70% of people have some form of periodontal disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). So how can you ensure you’re amongst those who avoid periodontal disease? It starts with simple, but consistent habits.
Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene Habits at Home
There is nothing more effective at preventing periodontal disease than practicing excellent oral hygiene habits at home. This means that you should brush your teeth for a full two minutes at least twice a day. However, if you can brush your teeth after each meal, that’s even better.
You also need to floss your teeth daily to prevent periodontal disease. Although it can take some getting used to, a water pick flosser is efficient for removing debris from the gum line, than traditional dental floss.
See the Dentist Twice a Year
All children and adults need a professional dental cleaning twice a year to remove plaque. Plaque is constantly forming on the teeth. If it isn’t removed, it hardens to the teeth in the form of tartar. The tartar that builds up under the gum line is a leading cause of the first stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis.
Seek Treatment for Teeth Grinding
Grinding your teeth puts damaging pressure on the tissues that support the teeth. This can lead to loosened teeth, and deep gum pockets, which makes you more susceptible to gum disease. A night guard can immediately stop you from grinding or clenching your teeth while you sleep.
Replace Missing Teeth With Dental Implants
If you have a tooth extracted, or lose a tooth due to another reason, it’s important to replace the missing tooth as soon as possible. Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth because they preserve the jaw bone, and last for decades.
Treat Diseased Pockets With Laser Dental Procedures
Gum disease occurs in stages. In the early stages, treatments, such as pocket depth reductions using soft tissue lasers can not only treat the current infection but can reduce the size of the pockets so that bacteria is less likely to accumulate. Laser treatments can also help regenerate new gum tissue, and help the gum tissue reattach to the bone.
Seek Immediate Treatment for Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
If you experience symptoms of periodontal disease the worst thing you can do is ignore them, or delay treatment. Periodontal disease will not go away on its own. If you experience any of the following symptoms of periodontal disease, it is crucial that you seek treatment right away.
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Tender gums
- Loose teeth
- Pain in the teeth or gums
Periodontal disease has been linked to serious and often chronic diseases and health conditions. Untreated periodontal disease increases your risks of:
- Heart Disease (coronary heart disease, infective endocarditis, heart attack)
- Stroke
- Pregnancy Problems (premature birth, low birth weight)
- Lung/Respiratory Infections (pneumonia)
- Osteoporosis (low bone density)
Schedule Treatment for Periodontal Disease Today
If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, it’s best to turn to a specialist for treatment. Periodontists are dentists who have completed additional training, education, and certification in the prevention, and treatment of periodontal disease. To schedule an appointment at Periodontal Associates in Framingham or Newton, MA, contact us today or send us a message to request an appointment.
Periodontal disease is a serious gum infection that can damage gums, destroy jawbone, loosen teeth or even cause the loss of one or more teeth. Fortunately, periodontal treatment can stop the disease before it causes significant damage.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease usually starts as the result of plaque, which is a sticky film composed mainly of bacteria. Plaque forms when the starches and sugars in food combine with bacteria that live in the mouth. Plaque can cause gingivitis, an early form of periodontal disease that causes swollen, tender and bleeding gums. Brushing easily removes plaque.
When left in place, plaque hardens into a hard-to-remove tartar that irritates the gums to cause inflammation, which can cause pockets to develop between teeth and gums. Plaque, tartar and bacteria can fill the pockets, causing the pockets and infection to deepen. Left untreated, deep infection can destroy tissue and bone, which allows teeth to loosen or fall out. Dentists refer to this late stage of periodontal disease as periodontitis.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
Treatment for periodontal disease depends largely on the stage and severity of the gum infection. Periodontists, who are dentists with advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, may suggest non-surgical or surgical treatments.
Non-surgical treatments for periodontal disease
In its early stages, periodontal disease often responds well to less invasive, non-surgical treatments.
Scaling
In this procedure, the periodontist uses special instruments, ultrasonic devices or even lasers to remove tartar and bacteria from the surfaces of teeth and beneath the gums.
Root planing
During root planing, the periodontist uses special tools to smooth the root surfaces, which discourages the further buildup of bacteria and tartar. Root planing also removes any bacterial byproducts that may contribute to inflammation, slow down healing, or delay the reattachment of the gum back onto the surface of teeth.
Antibiotics
Topical or oral antibiotics can help control bacterial infection. Topical antibiotics involve rinsing with antibacterial mouthwashes or inserting antibiotic gels into the pockets between teeth and gums. Oral antibiotics may be necessary to eliminate infection-causing bacteria.
Surgical treatments
Surgical treatments may be necessary to treat advanced periodontitis.
Flap surgery
Also known as pocket reduction surgery, flap surgery exposes the roots for more effective scaling and root planing. To perform flap surgery, the periodontist makes several incisions in the gum to allow a section of gum tissue to be gently pulled back to expose the roots for scaling and root planing. In cases of bone loss, the periodontist recontours the underlying bone before suturing the gum tissue back in place after flap surgery.
Soft tissue grafts
The loss of gum tissue causes the soft tissue of the gumline to recede. Treatment for receding gumline involves reinforcing the damaged soft tissue with tissue taken from other sources, such as from the roof of the patient’s mouth or from another donor source. Soft tissue grafts help prevent the gum from receding more; it can also cover exposed roots and give teeth a more pleasing aesthetic appearance.
Bone grafting
Bone grafting is necessary when periodontal disease has destroyed bone surrounding tooth roots. This procedure involves replacing damaged bone with small fragments of the patient’s bone, synthetic bone, or donated bone. The graft also holds the tooth in place and supports the regrowth of natural bone.
Periodontists may also perform advanced procedures, such as guided tissue regeneration and tissue-stimulating proteins. For more information about the treatment of periodontal disease, consult with a dentist or periodontist.Call (508) 875-6185 today to schedule an appointment at our Framingham office or (617) 964-6185 for our Newton Centre office. We look forward to providing you with top quality periodontal care.
Oral surgery designed to stimulate new bone growth in the jaw is known as bone regeneration. The procedure is performed by experienced periodontists, often in preparation for dental implant surgery. However, it may also be performed as a preventive procedure to safeguard against tooth loss. Dental bone regeneration may also be performed to improve a sunken facial appearance or to create space during a sinus lift surgery. Here’s what you need to know about dental bone regeneration.
What Causes Jawbone Loss?
The jawbone, which is responsible for anchoring your teeth, and for connecting your jaw to your skull may deteriorate for several reasons. Most of the time, jawbone loss is caused by missing teeth. When teeth and their roots are extracted, the jawbone has nothing to attach to, so it begins receding.
Serious gum disease known as periodontitis can also cause bone loss in the jaw. This is because untreated bacterial infections which spread to the living cellular tissues of the jawbone can significantly damage the bone.
Dental trauma can also lead to jawbone loss. This typically happens as the result of the development of an infection after a tooth has been broken or completely knocked out. Finally, jawbone loss may result from tumors and cancers.
Why Do I Need Bone Regeneration in My Jaw?
If you are referred for dental bone regeneration it is because you have experienced a significant loss of bone, and need to stimulate new growth. If you are planning to replace missing teeth with dental implants, your implant specialist will first have to confirm that you have sufficient jaw bone to support the implants. In other words, the jawbone must meet certain height and density requirements. If your jawbone has deteriorated, you’ll need bone regeneration before you’ll be approved for implant surgery.
In other cases, you may elect to have bone regeneration to correct premature aging due to a sunken facial appearance. Other patients may be referred for dental bone regeneration to prevent future tooth loss and dental problems. Finally, you may need to have this surgery after a serious gum infection that damaged the jaw bone.
What is the Procedure for Regenerating Dental Bone?
Dental bone regeneration involves bone grafting. During a bone graft, an incision will be made in the gum to expose the underlying bone. Any active infection will be removed or cleaned out. Then a graft material will be placed in the bone. The graft will either be harvested from your own body, secured from a tissue bank, or synthetic material may be used. After the graft material has been placed, a membrane to prevent downgrowth of the gum into the bone may also be placed.
During the surgery, Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) may be injected to help maximize bone regeneration and to expedite the healing process. This plasma is taken from your own body. It requires a simple blood draw which is then put in a centrifuge that separates the growth factors so that they are concentrated. That very concentrated plasma will be injected into the site of the graft.
The science behind using PRGF in dental bone regeneration is similar to Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections which are commonly used to expedite healing following an orthopedic injury
Jawbone Regeneration in Massachusetts
Contact Periodontal Associates in Framingham or Newton Centre, MA to learn more about dental bone regeneration. For more than 30 years, Dr. Feuerman and Dr. Castellucci have been able to predictably regenerate bone around natural teeth, restore your facial structure, or prepare for dental implant surgery.
Framingham Office: 508-875-6185
Newton Centre Office: 617-964-6185
Periodontitis is one word that strikes fear in many adults, and for good reason. The CDC has estimated that more than 47% of adults have periodontal disease by the age of 30. By age 65, approximately 70% of people have some form of the disease. That explains why dentures and dental implants have become so normal, that most people expect to need them eventually.
The good news is that you don’t have to live in fear of periodontal disease. When you understand what it is and what causes it, you can take preventative actions. You should also know the symptoms of periodontal disease so that you can catch it while it’s possibly curable.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is also known as periodontitis. It’s a medical condition that involves inflammation and infection in the gums and bone supporting teeth. It damages soft tissue and bone structure in the mouth over time and can lead to a receding gum line and potentially tooth loss.
The primary cause of periodontitis is an overgrowth of bacteria. That occurs when the teeth and gums aren’t cared for properly over time. If you make brushing and flossing a routine part of your day and visit your dentist for a cleaning on a regularly scheduled basis, you have a good chance of avoiding gum disease and keeping your teeth into old age.
Early Signs of Periodontal Disease
Periodontitis starts out as gingivitis. You may notice that your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth. Your gums may also just seem more tender than usual. If you look closely, you may also see plaque build up along your gum line.
In some cases, gingivitis is present with no apparent signs. If you’re visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings, they can alert you to signs noticeable from their experienced eye. Without those cleanings, you may not know you have periodontal disease until a later stage.
Signs of more developed periodontal disease include:
- Chronic bad breath
- Swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Pain when brushing or flossing
- Gum recession
- Tooth loss
- Sensitivity to cold and hot
What Happens if Periodontitis Isn’t Treated Properly?
Losing your teeth may seem like the most devastating long-term impact of untreated periodontal disease, but it can get worse. Severe gum infections can lead to inflammation and infection throughout the body. It can increase your chances of heart disease in addition to leaving you in need of dental implants or dentures.
Bad breath and bleeding gums can also interfere with your social and professional life. More advanced gum disease often means your gums start bleeding with any irritation, even if you aren’t brushing or flossing. It can take a toll on your self-confidence over time.
What to Do If You Think You Have Periodontal Disease
It’s easier to treat gingivitis than it is the more advanced periodontal disease. Preventative care includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and seeing your dentist for a professional cleaning regularly.
If you have been neglecting oral care and you notice signs of periodontal disease, it’s urgent to schedule a cleaning with a local dentist. They can determine if you have gum disease and tell you what stage you are in if you do. The longer you wait, the more expensive it will become to treat the condition and the more likely you are to lose teeth.
If you have gum disease, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Cooper, contact us today at 516-627-4151.
According to the CDC, Periodontal disease impacts about 47.2% of adults 30 years of age and older, with its prevalence increasing with age. In fact, for those 65 years of age and older, 70.1% will experience some form of periodontal disease.
As you can tell, it is a very common dental disease, but it surely isn’t a pleasant one. From bleeding gums to loose teeth and bone loss, it can severely decrease one’s quality of life. To know how to personally reduce the incidence of this disease, we need to know how you get it. Which leads us to the question: What causes periodontal disease?
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease comes in four stages, with the earliest stage – gingivitis – affecting only the gums. During this stage, the gums become inflamed and may bleed. If caught early, this is the only stage of periodontal disease that can be reversed.
If treatment is not sought, the disease will progress to the next stages which means the infection spreads from the gums to the surrounding tissue and bone that support your teeth. The gums may pull away from the tooth, bone loss begins to occur, teeth will get loose due to lack of support, and eventually, tooth loss happens.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Symptoms of periodontal disease will vary based primarily on the stage of the disease you are in. But knowing what to look for can help you make smart decisions about your oral health. Some of the most common symptoms you will encounter are:
- Red gums that may be swollen and tender.
- Bleeding gums.
- Loose gums that pull away from the gum line.
- Sensitivity along the gum line.
- Pain when chewing.
- Loose teeth.
- Bad breath.
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
We know what it is and what to look for, but what actually causes periodontal disease? Simply put, this disease can be caused by poor oral hygiene or a buildup of too much bacteria via the plaque buildup in the mouth. This leads to plaque bacterial toxins – which can spread below the gumline. As a result, it irritates and destroys the gums, tissues, and bones meant to support your teeth.
Developing a healthy regimen for your oral care can help reverse periodontal disease (if caught early) or at least reduce the chance of further damage. Brush and floss regularly and see your dentist every 3 – 4 months. This is the best way to reduce the buildup of the toxic plaque that can lead to periodontal disease.
Periodontal Associates For All Your Periodontal Needs
If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease or you think you may have it, then you must take the appropriate steps for your dental health. And that means getting a thorough examination by a dentist – and the treatment necessary to address the disease.
Periodontal Associates is a leader in periodontal care in the New England area. And we strive to help restore your smile and increase your quality of life.
Call our office today to schedule an appointment at one of our two convenient locations.
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Newton Office: [df-phone-number2 dflink=”true”]
Or schedule an appointment online.