A sparkly and symmetric smile requires dedication to a healthy routine that includes flossing and brushing and regular dental visits. Poor oral hygiene may contribute to oral disease, which may cause tooth loss, interfering with your lovely smile. 286 Madison Dental experts offer practical approaches that prevent the progression of your gum disease, preventing further complications from Midtown periodontal gum diseases.
What factors contribute to periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is a dental infection resulting from the accumulation of harmful bacteria in your mouth which irritate your gums. This oral disease develops in stages, with gingivitis being the earliest stage, where your gums are irritated, inflamed, and bleeding. Gingivitis is easy to treat, and if detected early, your doctor can reverse the damage caused to your teeth and gums.
Plaque can accumulate and spread beneath your gum line, causing your gum tissue to recede, creating periodontal pockets. These pockets gather more bacteria, causing an infection that damages your gum tissue further, exposing your jawbone. Factors contributing to this oral disease include poor nutrition, tobacco use, stress, specific medications, and genetics. This disease gradually worsens, risking the loss of your teeth.
How can you know you have periodontal disease?
Some people may not know that they have periodontal disease until it is advanced. The condition causes mild symptoms initially, which worsen over time as the disease deteriorates. Bleeding gums is a signature symptom of gum disease, and if not treated, it worsens, causing periodontal disease. If you also have bad breath, abnormal tooth sensitivity, and a receding gum line, you may need to inform your provider. If your gums also feel swollen and tender, seek immediate dental help.
What complications can periodontal disease cause?
Advanced periodontal disease contributes to tooth loss, but it can also lead to life-threatening heart disease complications. Medical experts have a theory that the inflammation resulting from gum disease can contribute to heart problems. Research also shows that individuals with preexisting heart disease are at higher risk of developing further cardiac complications after getting gum disease. This oral disease can also aggravate the health condition of a diabetic individual. Diabetes increases your vulnerability to infection, and gum infection may make it difficult to control blood sugar, exacerbating your overall health.
How can you prevent gum disease?
Some gum disease damages are irreversible, making it essential to develop a preventative care routine to curb its progression. Brushing and flossing regularly remove bacteria and plaque, preventing it from building up in your gums. An occasional professional cleaning may also be necessary to remove stubborn plaque in hard-to-reach areas. Routine dental visits also help identify oral problems and treat them before they cause any further damage.
If you already have gum disease, your provider may schedule several appointments to implement a treatment plan that prevents loss of teeth or overall health complications. Knowing the factors that cause periodontal disease can also help prevent its development. If you have a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth, you may have to stop it to avoid wounding your gums.
For more information about periodontal disease, call the 286 Madison Dental office or schedule an appointment online.
