Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection affecting the tissues around your teeth, caused by bacteria in plaque buildup along your gum line. It starts in the gums and, if left untreated, can spread to the roots of your teeth and even the bones. While it can become serious, proper care and treatment can prevent and manage it.
Who’s at Risk?
Gum disease can affect anyone, but certain factors increase your risk:
- Smoking/Tobacco Use: Leads to more tartar buildup and makes treatment less effective.
- Crowded Teeth, Braces, Bridgework: These make brushing harder, leading to more plaque.
- Genes: Some people are naturally more prone to gum disease.
- Stress: Weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight infections.
- Fluctuating Hormones: Extra care is needed during certain times.
- Grinding/Clenching Teeth: These habits don’t cause gum disease but can make it worse.
- Medications: Some cause dry mouth, which increases plaque formation.
- Poor Nutrition: Overall health impacts your immune system’s ability to fight infection.
- Diseases: Certain health conditions can increase your risk. Keep us updated on your health so we can provide the best advice for your oral care.
Symptoms
Watch for these symptoms and schedule an appointment if you notice any:
- Gums that bleed during or after brushing
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Receding gums
- Deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
Prevention
Good daily oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, is key to a healthy smile. Here are additional steps to reduce your risk:
- Regular dental check-ups
- Professional cleanings at least twice a year
- Healthy diet
- Reducing stress
- Treating clenching and grinding
- Quitting smoking
Treatment
The treatment depends on the severity of your condition. We will assess your situation and create a personalized plan, which may include:
- Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning to remove tartar and smooth out rough spots on the tooth root where bacteria gather.
- Medications: Used alone or with other treatments to control bacteria, enzyme responses, or persistent infections.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be needed. This can include regenerating bone or gum tissue to promote new growth and prevent gum invasion where bone should be.
If you have concerns about gum disease or want to discuss treatment and prevention, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
Sincerely,
Ramy Bahu, DDS
