If you start to notice swollen, tender or bleeding gums, it’s a good idea to contact your Marietta dentist for advice on gum disease treatment. Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a common condition that can range in severity from minor inflammation to severe bone damage. Unfortunately, if you don’t take action gum disease will only get worse, and you could end up losing teeth. So, what are the main causes of gum disease to be aware of?
What Is the Main Cause of Gum Disease?
Plaque is the main cause of gum disease. Plaque is a bacterial film that coats your teeth, destroying enamel and causing cavities. When you eat foods heavy in sugar and starch, these carbohydrates combine with existing bacteria in the mouth to create plaque on the teeth and around the gumline.
While mild levels of plaque can be removed through good oral hygiene, the issue can be compounded when plaque is allowed to harden – it then becomes tartar. This tartar can cause the gum to separate from the teeth, enabling bacteria to attack the tooth root. For dental patients who don’t seek out gum disease treatment, there may be bone or gum losses that degrade the underlying structure of the teeth.
What Factors Can Contribute to Gum Disease?
- Medication – Common medications may cause dry mouth and lead to more bacteria.
- Oral hygiene – Brushing, flossing and getting your teeth cleaned can prevent gingivitis.
- Illnesses – Health issues like diabetes can have side effects causing dental issues.
- Hormonal changes – Pregnancy and other hormonal changes may cause gum inflammation.
- Smoking – Smoking reduces oxygen in the bloodstream and can weaken gums.
- Family history – A family history of gum disease can increase your risk.
- Crooked teeth – Overlapping teeth make it harder to brush and floss effectively.
What Are the Gum Disease Treatment Options Available?
Gum disease treatment aims to stop the oral health problem from getting worse. Treatment can reduce the risk of infection and ensure the gums can reattach to the teeth.
- Your dentist will remove all plaque and tartar and tackle the signs of gum disease before it can progress. Scaling may also be required to remove plaque and tartar underneath the gum.
- Gum disease treatment appointments should take place every six months, but more frequent treatments may be required if there’s a persistent problem.
- For more serious gum disease issues, surgery may be an option. Flap surgery, bone surgery or bone and tissue grafts are all used to deal with gum disease that has impacted the tissue or bone around a tooth.
- Brushing your teeth after eating and flossing regularly should be a part of your daily oral hygiene routine. This can help prevent further gum disease.
Regular oral exams and dental cleanings can reduce the need for gum surgery, as the signs of gum disease can be identified at their earliest stages. Once diagnosed, the proper steps can be taken to prevent further deterioration.
Your dentist will recommend the appropriate gum disease treatment after assessing the severity of the issue.
Effective Gum Disease Treatment in Marietta
Shining Smiles Family Dentistry provides professional gum disease treatment, family dentistry and cosmetic dentistry treatments from our dental practice in Marietta. For assistance, call (770) 420-8550 or request an appointment today.
