The more we learn about oral health, the more we understand how deeply intertwined it is with overall health. The mouth is the gateway to the body, influencing your digestive, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems. When you suffer from periodontal disease (or gum disease), harmful bacteria infect your gums and jawbone. When left untreated, the bacteria can also spread throughout your body. As a result, unchecked periodontal disease can become quite dangerous, leading to or exacerbating systemic health issues. While there are effective treatments for gum disease, maintaining good oral health is the best form of prevention.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease has many causes. Anyone who doesn’t properly care for their teeth and gums can develop it, but there is also a genetic proponent. If gum disease runs in your family, your risk of developing it can be higher. That’s why it’s so important to brush, floss, and schedule regular checkups.
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should make an appointment with us immediately. Delaying action can lead to serious oral health issues, including tooth loss.
- Bleeding gums: If your gums often bleed when you brush your teeth, that is not normal. You should schedule a visit so we can evaluate the problem and formulate a plan to stop it. Bleeding gums are most often a sign of gum disease.
- Bad breath: Periodontal disease can cause bad breath because bacteria build up in deep gum pockets and release foul-smelling compounds as they break down tissue in the mouth.
- Gum inflammation: When the gums are infected, they create pockets of bacteria that cause swelling and irritation. Inflamed gums are painful and require attention to prevent further issues from developing.
- Receding gums or loose teeth: Untreated periodontal disease allows infectious bacteria to build up along the gum line. This can gradually erode gum tissue and bone, making teeth loosen and even fall out.
It’s important to take immediate action if you believe you have periodontal disease. If left untreated, you can lose your teeth and compromise your overall health.
Treatment of Periodontal Disease
Whether you’re in the early or advanced stages of gum disease, it’s important to visit us as soon as possible. It may be too late to prevent the disease, but it’s never too late to seek help.
In the early stages of periodontal disease (called gingivitis), consistent oral care and professional cleanings can help control and eliminate bacteria. Maintaining good oral health at this stage may prevent bacteria from spreading and even clear up the infection.
For more advanced gum disease, a deeper, more comprehensive cleaning is often needed. This “deep cleaning” goes beyond routine cleaning by removing plaque from tooth surfaces and clearing bacteria from pockets between the gums and teeth.
We may prescribe oral or topical medications to help combat periodontal disease. For some individuals, we might recommend corrective procedures.
At Aspire Dental Group, we use innovative techniques designed to effectively treat and manage gum disease. Laser dentistry, for example, is a minimally invasive approach that uses focused light energy to target bacteria and periodontal pockets. Laser treatment also encourages gum reattachment to the bone, promoting gum health. This relatively quick method minimizes bleeding and sterilizes the infected areas of your mouth. Using laser dentistry, we reattach and reshape your gums comfortably.
As with other dental concerns, the earlier we act, the more effective the treatment will be. At Aspire Dental Group, we are passionate about treating gum disease, so don’t hesitate to visit for periodontal treatment.
Schedule a Consultation at Aspire Dental Group!
Periodontal disease poses a real threat to both your oral health and your overall well-being. Contact us immediately if you experience symptoms like persistent bleeding gums, inflammation, or a receding gumline. The earlier we start treatment, the more likely we will be able to save your teeth and maintain your gum and jawbone health. No matter what stage of gum disease you may be experiencing, we offer extensive and comprehensive treatment to stop the spread of your infection and to repair your gums and teeth. Contact us today to book a consultation and take the first step toward better dental health!
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