Have you ever wondered why your gums bleed after brushing or flossing? The answer may be that you have gum disease, a bacterial infection of the gum tissue. If so, you’re not alone; a 2010 study estimated that 47.2% of American adults over thirty have some form of gum disease. The good news is that the effects of gum disease can often be successfully reversed when treated early on. Even patients with late-stage gum disease can benefit greatly from the quality treatment options offered by Drs. Mark Williams, Kirk Solberg and Clay Miller.
What are the different types of gum disease?
In its early stages, gum disease is known as gingivitis and is typically caused by poor oral hygiene. The main symptoms of gingivitis are red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Often the best way to treat gingivitis is with a deep professional cleaning of the teeth and gums, followed by diligent brushing twice a day and flossing once a day.
If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to become periodontitis; this occurs when plaque spreads below the gum lines and begins to irritate the gums. As a result, the bones and tissue that hold teeth in place can decay and lead to teeth becoming loose. When this happens, the dentist may recommend more advanced treatments, such as gum therapy and dental implants to replace missing teeth as well as bone or tissue grafting.
What factors can increase the risk of gum disease?
- Poor oral hygiene
- Diabetes
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Pregnancy
- Genetics
- Poor nutrition
- Certain medications, such as steroids, some types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers, and oral contraceptives
Don’t skip your regular dental checkups!
Someone with gum disease can feel little to no pain. They may not realize that they have an infection that could lead to more serious problems. Even when the infection has spread and become more destructive, a person might only experience mild symptoms initially. For this reason, it’s important to schedule regular dental checkups so that your dentist can monitor your gum health and treat any infection as early as possible.
No matter what condition your gums are in, Maitland Ave Smile Co. can provide you with a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan designed to restore your oral health.
To learn more about your treatment options, visit Maitland Ave Smile Co. in Altamonte Springs, FL. To schedule an appointment, call (407) 636-2402 or request an appointment online.