Do you have gum disease? Recent studies more than half of all Americans over the age of 30 have some stage of this condition, and many of them might not even know it. While a little redness or bleeding in the gums may be easy to brush off now, later stages of gum disease aren’t so easy to ignore. Although seemingly invisible, this health condition is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults. Thankfully, early symptoms of gum disease can be reversed before permanent damage settles in. Learn from your family dentist in Farmington about the different stages of gum disease and the best way to keep it from happening in the first place.
Warning Signs of Gingivitis
The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. It can develop from poor brushing habits that cause a colorless, sticky film know as plaque to build up along your gumline. If it’s not cleaned away, the bacteria contained within the plaque will begin to attack your gums, causing:
- Inflammation, swelling, and a bright red color in the gum tissues.
- Increased sensitivity to temperature and touch.
- Gums that bleed easily.
Thankfully this stage of gum disease causes no permanent damage and can be completely reversed with better dental care routines.
Permanent Issues with Periodontitis
If the infection attacking your gums isn’t treated it can evolve into the advanced stage of gum disease, also known as periodontitis. This means that the infection has gotten through your gums and is now attacking your jawbone. It can destroy the connective tissues that hold your teeth in place, causing them to loosen and fall out. Signs you might have periodontitis include:
- Receding gums.
- Large pockets between your teeth and gumline.
- Painful or loose teeth.
It’s important to catch gum disease before it reaches this stage, because damage from periodontitis cannot be reversed.
How to Stop Gum Disease in its Tracks
For being so widespread, gum disease is easy to prevent and treat. Making a conscious effort to remove the buildup of plaque on your gums with regular brushing and flossing can drastically reduce your likelihood of developing this common issue. To make the most of your dental routine, use fluoride toothpaste and specialized mouthwash for even more support.
The number one way to prevent gum disease is with the help of a professional. Seeing your dentist every six months ensures that any earning signs are detected as early as possible. Alongside your checkups, deep cleanings may be recommended to clear out plaque that has built up in hard to reach places. Whether you’re trying to prevent it or treat it, your dentist in Greenfield can help you fight gum disease.
The next time you check to see how white your teeth are, don’t forget to look at your gums. Keep them happy and healthy by preventing gum disease!
About the Author
Dr. William Carini is a preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentist in Greenfield, WI at the Advanced Dental Treatment Center. He is a graduate of the Marquette University School of Dentistry and has completed countless hours of continuous education in order to stay up to date with the newest in dental technology. Helping his patients maintain happy healthy smiles is his passion, which is why he offers a variety of services, including gum disease therapy. If you’d like to know more, he can be reached at his website or at (414) 209-7463.