Gum disease causes more patients to lose their teeth than tooth decay or oral trauma. So, you need to know its signs and how to avoid its destructive impact. At Eramosa Dental in Guelph, ON, your dentist, Dr. Dominic Lau, and his team in Guelph, ON, educate patients about their gums and best care practices.
What is gum disease?
Also called periodontal disease, gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue which supports and protects your tooth roots. When food residues collect between teeth and under the gums, Strep bacteria thrive, causing damaging inflammation.
This inflammation ruins soft gums, connective tissue, and the jaw bone itself. Plus, inflammation impacts systemic health. The American Academy of Periodontology says periodontal disease appears linked to:
- Osteoporosis
- Diabetes
- Heart Disease
- Hypertension
- Sexual dysfunction
- Arthritis
Now you know how critical your gum health is.
Symptoms of gum disease
At first, gum disease is silent. However, your dentist will recognize it upon an oral exam at his office in Guelph, ON. Mild gingivitis may present with only bleeding and some redness. As it progresses to periodontitis, these signs appear:
- Receding gum tissue (gums lose their characteristic turtleneck sweater appearance around each tooth)
- Loose teeth
- Pus between the teeth and beneath the gums
- Gum swelling and tenderness
- Gaps between teeth
- Changes in dental alignment and bite
- Bad breath
- Mouth sores
- Pain
Treatment options
Treatment is easier when your dentist catches gum disease early on. You may need a deep cleaning and root planing at his Guelph, ON, office. Dr. Lau may instill antibiotic medication at the gum line to quell the infection.
Additionally, patients with more advanced periodontal disease benefit from laser therapy. This intense laser light stops infection and removes damaged tissues quickly and comfortably. Dr. Lau may use laser therapy to speed healing of mouth sores, too.
Finally, you may advance your six-month cleanings and exams to three times per year. Many patients benefit from closer monitoring and maintenance of their gum health.
Preventing gum problems
While some people are genetically predisposed to gum disease, others simply need to step up their oral hygiene habits at home, including:
- Brushing twice a day and flossing every day to remove plaque and prevent tartar build-up
- Staying well-hydrated
- Stopping all tobacco
- Eating a low-sugar, high-fiber diet
- Getting routine cleanings and check-ups with Dr. Lau
Have a healthy smile
Take care of both your teeth and your gums, and enjoy excellent oral and overall health. At Eramosa Dental, Dr. Dominic Lau and his team monitor every aspect of your smile. Phone our Guelph, ON, office for your six-month appointment: (519) 821-4370.