Every year, millions of people develop gum disease. While it is a common dental issue, most patients believe that it can’t happen to them. Yet, the percentage of patients with gum disease increases to nearly 1 in 3 by age 65. This potentially serious condition affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. Without treatment, gum disease can move to a more serious stage known as periodontal disease. In advanced cases, restorative dentistry can help repair the damage caused by gum disease and restore your oral health.
At Dazzling Dentistry, we are committed to empowering our Arlington Heights patients with the knowledge and tools to combat gum disease effectively. With preventative measures, you can take the first step towards a healthier smile. We will work together to make sure your smile shines brightly for years to come.
Unraveling Gum Disease: How It Starts
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is the #1 cause of tooth loss in the United States, yet it is still commonly underdiagnosed. It is mainly caused by poor dental health and inadequate professional cleanings. Periodontal disease is a highly destructive bacterial infection that is usually asymptomatic and painless, like most diseases.
This is why, at Dazzling Dentistry, we put a strong emphasis on the prevention, treatment, and control of gum disease. We look beyond just teeth, we believe that healthy gums, bone, and periodontal structures are the foundation of a healthy smile. After all, these structures hold our teeth in place.
During each thorough hygiene re-care visit, our highly qualified dental hygienists follow an extensive examination protocol. We evaluate the attachment of gums, bone levels, bleeding, mobility, appearance of your gums, and your systemic health. We examine your radiographs and structures inside the mouth. This allows for early detection of gum infections and prompt treatment in order to maintain a healthy periodontal foundation and prevent tooth loss.
When active gum disease (deep periodontal pockets, thus poor attachment, bone loss, and infection in gums) is detected, we provide Active therapy Scaling and Root Planing (SRP), also known as deep cleaning. This treatment of gum disease is usually performed in two visits, 2 hours each, under local anesthetic. It involves the removal of calculus, bacterial plaque, and toxins from above and under the gums.
We use hand instrumentation and power scalers, as this combination is the most effective. The purpose of Scaling and Root planning is to shrink periodontal pockets and regain attachment of gums to maintain a more manageable level of gum disease.
Periodontal disease cannot be fully cured. Research shows that harmful bacteria regenerates every 3 months, in order to control the disease, it is important that we treat it every 90 days with periodontal maintenance therapy.
Our hygienists will provide a yearly health plan for this supportive therapy and work with you to minimize the destruction from periodontal disease.
Gum disease often begins with plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. When you don’t remove plaque daily, it can harden into tartar. As a result, it can lead to inflammation of the gums known as gingivitis.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. This is a more severe form of gum disease. Periodontitis occurs when inflammation spreads to the supporting structures of the teeth, including the bone. This stage can cause gum recession, tooth mobility, and even tooth loss.
Impact on Your Smile: Recognizing the Signs
Gum disease can manifest in several ways. You may notice early signs while you brush your teeth or consume your favorite foods. You can see the first signs in the mirror.
- Bleeding Gums: One of the early signs of gum disease is bleeding gums. You are likely to see this when brushing or flossing your teeth.
- Swollen Gums: Inflammation causes the gums to appear red and swollen.
- Persistent Bad Breath: Bacterial activity in the mouth can contribute to chronic bad breath.
- Receding Gums: Over time, your gums can pull away from the teeth. This can increase the size of the pockets around your teeth. It can give you the appearance of having long teeth.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Receding gums can expose tooth roots. As a result, this can lead to increased sensitivity.
- Changes in Tooth Alignment: Tooth mobility and shifting may occur as the supporting bone is compromised. This can also lead to missing teeth.
Taking Charge: Preventing Gum Disease
Your best step in the fight against gum disease is to prevent it in the first place. While there is a genetic component to gum disease, the most common cause it through poor oral hygiene. As a result, you can implement a thorough daily oral hygiene routine.
- Brushing: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. You should use a soft-bristle brush to avoid gum irritation.
- Flossing: Clean between your teeth daily to remove plaque from areas that your toothbrush may miss.
Furthermore, regular dental check-ups can help prevent gum disease. Schedule routine dental check-ups for professional dental cleanings. This process allows us to also catch gum disease in its early stages.