Periodontal disease is caused when the structures surrounding the tooth become infected. These structures include the gums, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. The beginning stage of periodontal disease, commonly known as gingivitis, affects the gums. Further stages of periodontal disease occur when the infection spreads to the other areas. Preventing periodontal disease is important to maintain your oral health.
Signs of Periodontal Disease
It is important to know the signs of periodontal disease, so that you can catch it in the early stages. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Bad breath
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Loose teeth
- Tender, soft, or red gums
These signs are not always apparent, so it is important to see your dentist regularly to get a more accurate diagnosis.
Treatments
When left untreated, periodontal disease can cause gum recession, jawbone deterioration, and even tooth loss. The early stages of periodontal disease may be reversed with nothing more than a simple dental cleaning. More progressive stages will require a process called scaling and root-planning. If the spread of the disease is resistant to scaling and root-planning, periodontal surgery may be required.
Prevention
Prevention is always the best method when it comes to your teeth. The best way to prevent periodontal disease is through proper oral hygiene. You need to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once. Using mouthwash can also reduce the bacteria levels in your mouth, which will help prevent periodontal disease.
Seeing a dentist regularly will allow them to catch issues in the early stages. Smoking increases the risk of periodontal disease, as well as a variety of other health problems. Catching periodontal disease early on is vital in reducing the necessity of extensive dental work.
Periodontal disease can cause many problems and can even lead to tooth loss. For more information about how to prevent periodontal disease, contact us at Hendersonville Family Dental today.
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