What is periodontal disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a group of inflammatory conditions that affect the tissues supporting and surrounding your teeth, collectively called the "periodontium." Similar to tooth decay, gum disease is caused by harmful bacteria found in dental plaque and tartar, which build up around the teeth and under the gums. Since gum disease often progresses without causing pain, it can easily go unnoticed. Therefore, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene habits and regularly visit your dentist for checkups, professional cleanings, and routine care. It is also crucial to be aware of the signs and symptoms of gum disease in order to maintain a healthy smile.
Some indications that you may have periodontal disease include:
- Gums that appear inflamed and red
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing
- Gums that recede, revealing tooth root surfaces
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Presence of bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Teeth exhibiting a sense of looseness
- Emergence of new spaces between the teeth or alterations in the bite
- Shift in the fit of current partial dentures
- Observation of discharge around the teeth and gums
- Experience of sharp or dull pain when biting down or chewing food
The Importance Of Good Oral Health
At Lakeview Family Dentistry, we understand that a vibrant smile goes beyond just taking care of your teeth. It plays a crucial role in maintaining overall well-being. Recent research has shown a link between periodontal disease, the leading cause of adult tooth loss, and various medical conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory problems.
That's why we prioritize the identification, prevention, and treatment of periodontal disease in its early stages. Our goal is to offer patients the necessary guidance, support, and treatment to protect the health of their periodontal tissues.
What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, which may not cause pain but has specific signs to watch out for. If your gums bleed while brushing, appear red and swollen, or feel tender, you likely have gingivitis.
The good news is that treating gingivitis early can prevent further damage to the gums that may occur in later stages of gum disease. Despite inflammation, the overall health of the gums remains intact at this stage.
Taking action against gingivitis now is often enough to reverse the disease and prevent permanent damage to the gums. Deep dental cleanings, improved oral hygiene practices at home, and regular maintenance can effectively stop the progression of this early stage of gum disease.
Let Us Help You Maintain Optimal Periodontal Health
At Lakeview Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing customized and cutting-edge solutions to ensure the health of your gums and the beauty and functionality of your smile. Our highly skilled team utilizes state-of-the-art technology and treatment methods to address a wide range of periodontal conditions and individual needs.
With the use of the latest advancements in dental care, our periodontal treatments not only stop the progression of gum disease but also offer effective solutions such as bone grafting and regenerative procedures. These interventions help repair tissue damage, restore bone volume, enhance aesthetics, and provide sufficient support for the placement of dental implants.