Gum Disease Treatment in Bridgeton

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Often called gum disease, this is an infection or inflammation of the gum tissues in the mouth. Since the gums secure the teeth, when gum disease remains untreated, it can lead to tooth loss. When you treat gum disease in its early stage, it can be cured, and the damage can be reversed. However, when you ignore your gum disease symptoms, the disease can progress to the advanced stage. At that point, there is no gingivitis cure, the damage is permanent, and reversing gum disease damage isn't possible. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among Americans aged 35 and older.

What Causes Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease, and poor oral hygiene is the most common cause. Not brushing and flossing regularly enables plaque to accumulate on the teeth, but you may not have any gingivitis symptoms at this point. When plaque remains, it becomes tartar, which is a very hard substance that can only be removed by a dentist. At this point, the gums are inflamed and sensitive, which are typical gingivitis symptoms. The disease can still be treated at this point, but if it isn't, the gums will continue to pull away from the teeth. You'll lose all your teeth and cause irreparable and irreversible damage to your teeth and gums.

What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

You may have gum disease for a long time before you're aware of its presence, since it may present asymptomatically. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you may be in the early stages of gingivitis and should make an appointment with your dentist. The following symptoms may indicate the presence of gingivitis:

1. Bad breath or an unusual taste in your mouth
2. Bleeding when you brush or floss
3. Red, swollen, or sensitive gums

Signs of Gum Disease

If your dentist sees the following signs, they'll know you have gum disease. Those signs include:

1. Loose teeth or uneven gaps between your teeth
2. Gums pulling away from your teeth
3. Swollen gums
4. Pockets of inflammation at the base of your gums
5. Pus between your gums and teeth

If they notice any of the above, they'll provide you with tips on improved hygiene habits and gum disease treatment so you can have healthy gums again.

What Are the Stages of Gum Disease?

Gum disease has several stages:

1. Gingivitis: This is the initial stage of gum disease and the only stage at which there is a gingivitis cure. There may be no signs of gingivitis because the disease sometimes presents asymptomatically, but your dentist can detect gum disease symptoms during your annual exam and checkup. Any damage can be reversed at this stage, so if you notice any gingivitis symptoms, don't delay in contacting your dentist for an appointment.
2. Peridontitis: This is the next stage of gum disease, and any damage done by this time is irreversible. At this point, your bone and tissues will have been compromised, and you'll have pockets that will develop at your gum line. The pockets will trap plaque and food particles, and the disease will accelerate.
3. Advanced Periodontitis: Advanced periodontitis, which is the final stage of the disease, may have caused you to lose some or all of your teeth. Your facial structure will erode, and your jawbone will become distorted, making your face look as though it has melted. It's unfortunate that all this can be prevented simply by brushing and flossing and good oral hygiene, but it's true.

How Do I Cure Gingivitis?

The earlier you start your gingivitis treatment, the better the prognosis. Your dentist can provide a more effective gingivitis cure, and the damage from the disease will be significantly reduced. If you're unsure whether you have signs of gingivitis or gum disease in any stage, contact our Bridgeton office for an appointment. Reversing gum disease is always easier when it's detected early, so don't wait if you need an appointment. Early gingivitis treatment includes a professional cleaning and a commitment to your oral hygiene regimen. However, it won't go away on its own; you need a professional gingivitis cure, starting with an exam and professional cleaning at your dental office. Call our Bridgeton office today to schedule an appointment for gum disease.

Need an Appointment?

If you have signs of gingivitis or gum disease in Bridgeton, then call Steven L Rasner DMD MAGD - Bridgeton to schedule an appointment for a gingivitis treatment or a gum disease cure, and don't be embarrassed. We treat many patients with this issue, and we want to ensure you have the best possible prognosis, so don't delay in making an appointment. We have earned a reputation as one of the best in the area, so call us today. We look forward to speaking to you.