Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection that affects the tissues around your teeth, caused by bacteria in the plaque that builds up along your gum line. It starts in the gums and, if left untreated, can spread to other areas like the roots of your teeth and even the bones. While it can become serious, with proper care and treatment, it can be prevented and managed.
Who is at Risk?
Periodontal disease can affect anyone, but some factors increase your risk:
- Genes: Some people are naturally more prone to the disease.
- Smoking/Tobacco Use: Smokers develop more tartar, and smoking can make treatment less effective.
- Crowded Teeth, Braces, Bridgework: These can make brushing harder, leading to more plaque buildup.
- Grinding/Clenching Teeth: These habits don’t cause periodontal disease but can worsen it.
- Stress: Weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight infections.
- Fluctuating Hormones: During certain times, extra care is needed.
- Medications: Some cause dry mouth, increasing plaque formation.
- Diseases: Certain health conditions can increase risk. Keep us informed about your health so we can advise you on oral health impacts.
- Poor Nutrition: Overall health affects your immune system’s ability to fight infection.
Symptoms
Watch for these symptoms and schedule an appointment if you notice any:
- Bleeding gums during or after brushing
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Receding gums
- Deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
Prevention
Good daily oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, is key to a healthy smile. Here are additional steps to reduce your risk:
- Regular dental care
- Professional cleanings at least twice a year
- Healthy diet
- Stress reduction
- Treatment for clenching and grinding
- Quitting smoking
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of your condition. We will assess your situation and create a tailored plan, which may include:
- Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning to remove tartar and smooth out rough spots on the tooth root where bacteria gather.
- Medications: Used alone or with other treatments to control bacteria, enzyme responses, or persistent infections.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be needed.
- Bone and Tissue Grafting: Regenerating bone or gum tissue to promote new growth and prevent gum invasion where bone should be.
If you have concerns about periodontal disease or want to discuss treatment and prevention, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
Sincerely.
Patrick J. Soria, DDS
