Periodontal disease is a serious condition that develops because of gum bacteria. When left untreated, it can result in tooth and bone damage as well as tooth loss. This condition does not occur overnight. Rather it begins with a gum inflammation or gingivitis and worsens over time. The more advanced your periodontal disease, the more extensive the treatment you require. Also, advanced gum disease puts you at an increased risk for tooth loss. But you can avoid severe complications, you must get dental care from a dental practice in Maryville, TN once you notice signs of gum disease.
How to Know You Have Periodontal Disease
Symptoms of periodontal disease vary depending on the condition’s seriousness. Indeed, in the early stages, the condition may not show some signs, until a dentist examines you. But as the infection in the gum worsens, you may experience tender, red, or swollen gums, receding gums, bleeding gums, plaque or tartar buildup, chronic bad breath, a bad taste, loose or sensitive teeth, and pain whenever you chew. Apart from these symptoms, periodontal disease may also lead to the development of other health issues like high blood sugar, rheumatoid arthritis, coronary artery disease, and respiratory disease.
How to Prevent Periodontal Disease
Serious stages of gum disease can’t be fully reversed. Because of this, a preventative care routine must be established before the disease progresses.
Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly and properly can get rid of plaque from teeth and prevent buildup. You should also get a dental checkup and cleaning every six months to remove tartar and plaque in hard-to-reach places in your mouth. If you are currently suffering from periodontal disease, you may need to visit your dentist frequently. Also, your dentist may need to implement an aggressive treatment plan.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
If you have periodontal disease, your treatment depends on the seriousness of your condition. Common treatments include the following:
- Scaling and root planing. If you have gum disease in the early stage, your periodontal health can be restored with non-surgical treatments. Scaling gets rid of plaque and tartar above and below your gum line. Also, root planing eliminates plaque and tartar from root surfaces to smoothen rough spots that hold bacteria. The gum tissue can start to heal with your teeth are clean.
- Periodontal gum surgery. If periodontal pockets that surround your teeth have become hard to clean with a professional care routine, a surgical procedure may be necessary. This procedure offers more access to your teeth roots to allow for more effective root planing and scaling.
