Gum Disease Treatment
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is the infection of your gums. It is caused by the sticky film of bacteria, called plaque, that constantly forms on your teeth. Though gum disease often begins as a painless infection, it is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults.
Early Gum Disease
The early stage of gum disease, also called gingivitis, is usually painless. That is one reason it is so important to see your dentist regularly. Gingivitis, when caught early, can be reversed with regular dental cleanings and good oral hygiene habits at home. Dr. Joan Laura is trained to look for the signs of gum disease or gingivitis before it becomes a serious problem.
Some symptoms of early gum disease include:
- Sore or swollen gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- A bad taste in the mouth
- Persistent bad breath
Advanced Gum Disease
When gingivitis goes unchecked, it can progress into advanced gum disease, called periodontitis. At this stage, in addition to the other symptoms, the bone that supports the teeth can be compromised. Teeth feel loose and may begin moving out of position in the mouth. How to treat gum disease? It is very important to seek treatment for gum disease to avoid tooth loss, and prevent infection that could potentially affect your whole body.
Preventing Gum Disease
The good news is that gum disease is highly preventable. The very best way to prevent gum disease, or to keep it from getting worse, is simple.
Practice good oral hygiene:
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Floss between your teeth once a day
- Pay close attention to your gums
- See your dentist regularly for dental cleanings and exams
At Eastwood Dental Office, we want to partner with you to prevent and treat gum disease . Please see Dr. Laura regularly for checkups and practice good oral care between visits to maintain a clean and healthy mouth. To make an appointment, use our online form or give us a call at (315) 438-3333 today.