Gum disease is a common infection that affects the gums and teeth. It is caused by a build-up of plaque and tartar, leading the gums to become inflamed and bleeding. If left untreated, gum disease can damage the gums and teeth and lead to tooth loss.
So how can you spot the signs of this silent killer to prevent it from happening to you? Please take note of these tips to treat it like a dentist in Brighton would.
Bleeding and Swelling Gums
Gum disease is usually a sign if your gums bleed or are swollen. Most people with gum disease experience bleeding gums and inflammation, although people who smoke may not see either of these symptoms. Gums that are tender to the touch, puffy, and easily bleed when you brush or floss your teeth are not healthy.
If you don’t see an improvement within two weeks of brushing and flossing your teeth every day, you should schedule a periodontal exam.
Halitosis
Bad breath can indicate an underlying issue, such as gum disease. Gum disease is caused by bacteria and can lead to serious infections. These infections can cause a bad smell that is difficult to eliminate with mints or mouthwash.
Tartar
Tartar is a hard, yellow, brown, or black substance that forms on teeth along the gumline. It is made of calcified dental plaque and can only be removed with special instruments. If it is not removed, it will gradually become larger and grow deeper around the roots of the teeth, causing the surrounding tissues to detach completely.
Stuck Food
When plaque and bacteria are allowed to accumulate around the gums, it can cause the gum tissue to become inflamed and pull away from the teeth. This creates pockets of space around the roots of the teeth, which can easily trap food particles during meals. Over time, this can lead to visible dark shadows or black triangles between the teeth.
Longer-Looking Teeth
Gum disease is a serious problem leading to tooth loss, and one of the signs you’re going to lose a tooth sooner or later is receding gums, which means that the gums are pulling away from the teeth. This can happen over time and can be made worse by aggressive brushing or teeth grinding. If you have receding gums, it’s important to get treatment immediately to prevent further damage.
Treating It Is as Simple as This
The two main types of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontitis. The former is the early stage characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. The latter is the more serious form that can damage the tissues and bones that support your teeth.
The best—and simplest—way to avoid gum disease is to brush your teeth twice daily, floss daily, and get professional cleanings every six months. Good dental hygiene can reverse gingivitis in two weeks, but it cannot reverse gum disease if the tissue and bone have already been damaged.
The more aggressive disease could require grafting, medication, or referral to a specialist. Otherwise, a clean environment is established, and maintenance cleanings are set up every three to four months to help prevent relapse.
Address Gum Disease with Chestnut Hill Dental
Resolve gum disease and other related concerns with Chestnut Hill Dental today! We provide patients with a multidisciplinary approach to dental care for simple and complex scenarios, like extractions, implants, crowns, laser gum therapy, and more. Learn more about our dentist in Brighton by visiting our website today!
