Gum disease may occur if you experience tooth loss, foul breath, or bleeding gums. Gum disease is a widespread oral health issue in Canada that many people deal with. If ignored, it might result in serious dental problems. Guelph Royal Dental Centre desires to arm you with the information you need to comprehend gum disease, its causes, and practical preventative measures. This blog post will cover all there is to know about gum disease.
Gum Disease: What Is It?
Gum disease, sometimes called periodontal disease, is a condition that harms the tissues supporting the teeth and the gums. The root of the problem is dental plaque, a bacterial film that forms on teeth and serves as a haven for germs. Plaque may solidify into tartar if it is not eliminated by brushing and flossing, which can only be done by a dental professional.
Red, swollen, and bleeding gums are symptoms of gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. If untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease resulting in receding gums and loose teeth.
What Causes Gum Disease?
The likelihood of getting gum disease can be influenced by several variables, including the ones listed below:
- Improper Oral Hygiene: Gum disease may develop if you don’t routinely brush and floss your teeth.
- Tobacco Use: Gum disease is more likely if you smoke or use other tobacco products.
- Genetics: A person’s heritage may increase their risk of having gum disease.
- Diabetes: Gum disease is more likely to affect people with diabetes.
- Drugs: Certain antidepressants and antihypertensive medications, among others, may raise the risk of gum disorders.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes can raise the risk of gum disease during adolescence, pregnancy, and menopause.
Gum Disease Signs And Symptoms
Depending on how serious the condition is, gum disease can show various symptoms. Here are a few typical signs of gum disease:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath
- Receding gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in bite or the way teeth fit together
- Pus between the teeth and gums
- If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with your dentist to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Taking Care of Gum Disease
The gum disease treatment strategy is influenced by how severe the issue is. Your dentist might advise non-surgical procedures like these if you only have minor gum disease:
- Scaling and root planning: A thorough cleaning technique that eliminates tartar and bacteria from the tooth’s roots.
- Antibiotics: To treat and stop the infection from spreading, your dentist may advise taking antibiotics.
If the gum disease is more serious, your dentist might advise one of the following surgical procedures:
- Flap surgery: To remove tartar buildup, this technique shallows the pocket and lifts the gums.
- Bone grafts: During this operation, bone and tissue loss brought on by periodontitis is replaced.
- Directed tissue regeneration: Membranes are used in this procedure to encourage the development of new bone and gum tissue.
Gum Disease Vaccines
The best way to stop gum disease is with good dental hygiene habits. Follow the advice below to prevent gum disease:
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each using fluoride toothpaste.
- Daily flossing: To eliminate plaque and food fragments from in between your teeth, use dental floss at least once a day.
- Use mouthwash: You may freshen your breath and fight bacteria by using an antiseptic mouthwash.
- Consume a balanced diet: To keep your teeth and gums healthy, eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
- Give up smoking and other tobacco use. Avoiding tobacco usage will reduce your risk of developing gum disease.
- To keep your teeth and gums healthy and to identify any issues early on, visit your dentist periodically for cleanings and examinations.
You can dramatically lower your risk of having gum disease by adhering to these suggestions.
For All Your Dental Needs, Call Guelph Royal Dental Centre
We at the Guelph Royal Dental Centre are committed to assisting patients in achieving the highest level of dental health. Preventive care, restorative dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry are among the dental services provided by our skilled dental team. Please contact us if you spot any signs of gum disease or have any concerns about your dental health. Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment strategy that satisfies your particular requirements and provides you a beautiful, healthy smile.
In conclusion, gum disease is a widespread issue with oral health that, if left untreated, can result in major dental problems. It would be easier for you to take preventative actions to safeguard your dental health if you are aware of the causes, signs, treatments, and prevention of gum disease. If you want to keep your teeth and gums healthy, practice proper oral hygiene practices, eat a balanced diet, quit smoking, and schedule routine dentist checkups. If you are worried about your oral health, contact us at Guelph Royal Dental Centre for professional dental care.
DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.