What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is the inflammation that results from buildup of bacteria in plaque between your teeth and along the gum line. There are two primary kinds of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Generally, gum disease begins with gingivitis and progresses to periodontitis if left untreated.
Gum disease can start out as a minor irritation, but it can eventually destroy the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth. Studies have even shown that infections in the mouth can adversely affect your heart health. Gingivitis, being the earlier stage of gum disease, isn’t characterized by any permanent damage to teeth or gums and can be treated or even sometimes reversed with early intervention, regular checkups, and frequent cleanings. Periodontitis, on the other hand, is more complicated, as it does lead to permanent tooth or bone loss.
It is difficult to restore proper function and the youthful appearance of your smile once bone deterioration or tooth loss have begun. So, instead of allowing gum disease to progress to its more damaging forms, you’re much better off seeking early gum disease treatment at our Flushing, NY office. It is most effective to treat gum disease with deep cleanings.
How Do I Know If I Have Gum Disease?
Gum disease is often linked to patients who have poor dental hygiene habits, use tobacco or alcohol, or have a genetic history with the disease. That said, periodontal disease can still be detrimental for men and women of any age, so it is important to look for the following symptoms of gum disease:
- Bad breath
- Toothache
- Loose teeth or tooth loss
- Receding gums
- Tender gums
- Bright red gums
- Swelling or bleeding when brushing or flossing
How Do You Treat Gum Disease?
Dr. Salha and his team treat periodontal disease with a deep dental cleaning. This may involve scaling and root planing, which is a painless, non-surgical procedure that reduces plaque buildup.
Our gum disease treatment team in Flushing, NY will also help you design an at-home care routine that will allow you to control periodontal disease at home. We may also suggest more frequent teeth cleanings. And finally, Dr. Salha might recommend other gum disease treatment options.
How Do You Prevent Gum Disease?
Of course, the best way to prevent gum disease is with daily brushing and flossing. And don’t forget to accompany these habits with regular professional preventative care.
Around 75% of American adults suffer from some form of periodontal disease. Unfortunately, even if you take good care of your teeth, you may still be affected by this common problem.
Don’t put off your gum disease treatment. Give our Flushing, NY gum disease dentist a call at (718) 939-0862 today, or fill out our contact form.