Gum disease is also known as periodontitis or periodontal disease, and it is a very serious disease that can cause tooth loss if it is not taken care of properly. It is a very common and yet very preventable disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost 50% of adults over 30 have some form of periodontal disease, but it can be prevented by good standard oral hygiene practices that are repeated every day. If you have any of the warning signs of gum disease, we here at San Tan Oral Surgery can get you started on a treatment plan right away.
What is Gum Disease?
Bacteria, which is always present in the mouth and feeds off of what we ingest, creates the sticky, fuzzy-like film on your teeth that is known as plaque. Brushing and flossing generally takes care of this plaque and removes it from your teeth. If you practice good oral hygiene habits, the plaque does not get much of a chance to build up, even in the tight crevices of your teeth. However, if this plaque is not removed it can turn into tartar and cause tooth decay, and tartar can only be removed by a professional.
Tartar, if left untreated, can cause issues with the gums that make them recede from teeth and contain pockets of bacteria. This is known as gum disease. Gingivitis and gum disease are often used interchangeably, but they are two different things. Gingivitis is when your gums are inflamed. Although it often leads to periodontitis, if the problem is addressed quickly enough, that may not necessarily happen.
What are the Symptoms and Treatment for Gum Disease?
One of the most common symptoms of gum disease is inflamed gums. The gums will appear red and swollen and may be sensitive to touch. The gums may also bleed when you are brushing your teeth. Your gums may appear to be receding from your teeth, or you may notice dark spots or shadows that indicate pockets between your gums and your teeth. You may also notice that you have bad breath when you did not suffer this issue before. Read more about gum recession.
These are all some of the more common symptoms of gum disease and should be checked out immediately by a doctor. Less common symptoms include pain when you are chewing, loose teeth, or changes in the way your bite feels when you clamp your teeth together.
The main focus of treatment for gum disease is ridding your mouth of the infection. The pockets of bacteria between your teeth and gums will be thoroughly cleaned by us, and you may be given a prescription mouth rinse. You will also be instructed on thorough oral hygiene practices that will help keep your mouth healthy, and until the disease is eradicated, you will likely have more frequent dental checkups. If you are at a higher risk factor for gum disease with things like smoking or diabetes, you may be provided with options to help alleviate these issues.
If you are having symptoms of gum disease, do not hesitate to call us today at (480) 604-2592. Our friendly team of professionals at San Tan Oral Surgery is here to help you take care of your teeth for life.
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Gum Disease - San Tan Oral Surgery - Oral Surgeon Gilbert AZ Gum disease is also known as periodontitis or periodontal disease. Your gums may bleed when you are brushing your teeth. Call San Tan Oral Surgery now! San Tan Oral Surgery, 3303 S. Lindsay Rd. Suite 112, Gilbert, AZ 85297-2100; (480) 604-2592; santanoralsurgery.com; 1/8/2025; Related Terms: Dental Implants Gilbert AZ;
