Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a condition in which the gums turn infected and inflamed. This condition is usually caused by poor oral health care. If the issue is not treated in its early stages, it can result in the deterioration of the gums or even tooth loss.
Periodontal disease begins when bacteria builds up in the mouth. The bacteria mix with saliva and food particles and form plaque, which is a clear, sticky film on the teeth. Plaque can be cleaned away with thorough brushing and flossing. Yet, if the plaque is not taken care of, it hardens and forms a hard, yellow coating on the teeth. This coating is called tartar and it can only be cleaned by a dental hygienist.
Tartar is usually the first symptom of gum disease. When the teeth begin to appear yellow, it means that it is time to step up your efforts to brush and floss your teeth, as well as time to get a professional cleaning. If the tartar is not cleaned off in a timely manner, it may cause additional problems. The next stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is the inflammation caused when the bacteria infects the gums. The signs of gingivitis include red, shining, or swollen gums, as well as bleeding when you brush your teeth. Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease, and it can be remedied by a professional cleaning and improved brushing and flossing.
It is crucial to get a professional cleaning as soon as possible after you notice symptoms of gingivitis. If the gingivitis is allowed to progress, it will turn into periodontitis. Periodontitis is an advanced form of periodontal disease in which the bacteria infects the tooth sockets and tissues deep in the gums. Signs of periodontitis include receding gums, loose teeth, as well as pus or seepage from the tooth sockets as the body tries to fight the infection.
When periodontitis sets in, the dentist treats the infection with oral antibiotics, and well as by performing dental treatments designed to scrape away the bacteria from the roots of the teeth. If the bacteria are not cleared away from the teeth, the gum tissue can be destroyed and tooth loss may occur.
The best way to prevent gum disease is to take care of your oral health. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss each day. Visit your dentist for a checkup and professional cleaning every six months. If you notice symptoms of periodontal disease, take care to brush and floss more thoroughly. Then, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to clear the issue before it can progress to the next stage.
Dr. Mondavi provides various periodontal treatments to prevent severe damages to the teeth and gums as a result of gum disease. Gum disease treatments are needed to avoid tooth loss.