The signs of gum disease often go ignored — but it couldn’t be more important to seek treatment for gum disease, also known as periodontitis. Left untreated, the condition can have serious effects on an otherwise healthy body. Think your chances of developing periodontitis are low? It’s estimated that 75 percent of American adults exhibit the symptoms of gum disease. Fortunately, the condition is easy to treat and reverse, and your Waco dentist offers gum disease treatment at Premier Family Dental.
What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
The symptoms of gum disease are painless, which means the condition may not be recognized until it’s reached its later stages. Some signs you may be dealing with periodontal disease include the following.
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Gums that bleed (usually noticed after brushing and flossing)
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession
- Sensitive teeth
- Changes in the way the bite fits together
- Changes in the fit of a partial denture
Once gum disease has advanced, teeth may become loose and eventually fall out. To prevent tooth loss and maintain good overall health, it’s vital that you receive treatment for gum disease before the condition reaches this late stage.
Risk Factors of Gum Disease
Patients who exhibit the risk factors of gum disease should be aware of their elevated chances for developing the condition. For these patients, more frequent visits to the dentist and better dental hygiene can help to prevent gum disease.
Factors that increase your risk for developing gum disease include:
- Poor dental hygiene (inadequate brushing and flossing)
- Tobacco use
- Crooked teeth that make proper cleaning difficult
- Genetics
- Pregnancy can cause a temporary form of the condition known as pregnancy gingivitis
- Age (risk increases over the age of 35, and again over the age of 65)
- Certain medications that cause dry mouth
If you suspect you or a loved one are suffering from gum disease, don’t hesitate to seek treatment. Left untreated, gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
How Gum Disease Is Treated
In its earliest stages, gum disease is reversible with improved oral hygiene and a few extra hygiene visits to the dentist. Scaling and root planing (also called a deep cleaning) may be necessary for moderate levels of gum disease. This method may be combined with antibiotic treatment to fully heal the mouth. Once gum disease has reached its later stages, nonsurgical methods may not be an option. Surgery can reverse advanced periodontitis.
Request an appointment for gum disease evaluation or treatment with Dr. Cofer today! Good gum health is an important part of your overall wellbeing. Let us check in on your gums to prevent gum disease in Waco this summer!