The Ins And Outs Of Periodontal Disease
Did you know that almost half of adults over the age of 30 suffer from some form of periodontal disease? That’s right: an estimated 47.2% of these Americans could have periodontal disease right now and this number is only growing.
Even though nearly half of adults suffer from this disease, few people know how to recognize the symptoms. Here are some of the primary facts about periodontal disease and how to stop it from occurring.
Periodontal disease: What is it?
Periodontal disease is a type of gum disease that results in swelling, inflammation, and bleeding along the gumline. It’s caused by an infection of bacteria around the teeth, leading to gingivitis. Should you not seek medical help to combat gingivitis, you could be at risk for more serious forms of gum disease. In particularly bad cases, some people have experienced tooth loss, deterioration of the jaw bone, and other issues regarding their overall health.
Here are some of the primary symptoms of periodontal disease:
- Swollen, inflamed gums that are tender to the touch
- Gums that bleed easily while flossing, brushing, or eating
- Discolored gums (usually bright red, dark red, or even purple)
- A receding gumline
- Pus between teeth
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth or spaces forming between teeth
- Painful chewing
Should you be experiencing any of these issues, rely on your family dentist for the proper dental care.
How to stop periodontal disease
The bacteria that infects your gums is often found in the form of dental plaque. With the proper brushing, flossing, and trips to the dentist, you can mitigate the harmful effects of periodontal disease. However, some people who have other medical conditions may be at an increased risk for gum disease. This includes those with heart disease, people suffering from respiratory issues, and those with diabetes.
Though a root canal may be able to save loosened teeth, it’s more common that the tooth must be extracted via dental sedation and surgery. If you’re missing one or more teeth, dentures and veneers are common options to project a healthy-looking smile.
Relying on the experience and professionalism of your family dentist is the best way to gain beneficial information regarding your oral health. For more information on periodontal disease, Invisalign, sealants, veneers, and more, contact Gainesville Dental Associates for quality dental work today.