02
Dec
Gum Disease Demystified: FAQs About Prevention and Treatment
Gum disease is a common yet misunderstood condition affecting many people worldwide. If left untreated, it can lead to mild inflammation or severe infections, ultimately resulting in tooth loss. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and available treatments is essential for good oral health. This article will answer frequently asked questions about gum disease, focusing on preventing it and the treatments available for those affected.
Is Occasional Gum Bleeding While Brushing Your Teeth Normal?
Yes and no, depending on whether you brush vigorously or use a stiff-bristled toothbrush. However, your gums should not bleed each time you brush. Frequent gum bleeding is the most common symptom of plaque buildup on the tooth roots and gum inflammation caused by gingivitis.
What Contributes to Gum Disease?
Risk factors for gingivitis include:
- Neglecting oral health
- Smoking
- Dry mouth/lack of saliva
- Nutritional deficiencies/poor eating habits
- Certain medications, such as calcium channel blockers or anti-seizure drugs
Calcium channel blockers and anti-epileptic drugs may promote excessive growth of gum tissue (gingival hyperplasia), making it more challenging to clean your teeth properly. Nicotine reduces saliva production and interferes with saliva’s ability to moisturize the mouth. Bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease thrive in chronically dry mouths.
What Are the Stages of Gum Disease?
- Stage 1: red, swollen, and bleeding gums caused by bacterial buildup. It is reversible with improved oral hygiene and professional cleaning.
- Stage 2: Moderate periodontitis: treatable but requires prompt action to prevent further damage
- Stage 3: Severe periodontitis: extensive bone and tissue loss, loose teeth, and gum recession. Aggressive treatment is necessary to save teeth and prevent complications requiring surgery.
Gingivitis vs Periodontitis: What’s the Difference?
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can progress to more severe conditions like periodontitis if not managed. Periodontitis is severe gingivitis that has progressed beyond infrequent gum bleeding. Signs of periodontitis include:
- Swollen, bright red gums that always bleed
- Pockets of pus at the gum line
- Receding gums
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Halitosis
- Loose teeth
Unlike mild gingivitis, with improved oral hygiene, periodontitis is a more severe gum disease requiring professional treatment from Dr. Danielle AKry, a Century City, California dentist.
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Can Periodontal Disease Be Reversed?
Yes, but it can only be reversed by a dentist specializing in periodontitis treatment. Special dental tools are necessary for removing plaque and tartar deposits at the gumlines. Scaling clears away plaque and tartar buildup, while root planning eliminates rough, porous spots on tooth roots where bacteria tend to accumulate. Smoothing these spots also reduces the risk of staining by certain beverages and foods.Depending on the severity of periodontitis, scaling, and root planning may be completed in one visit. In advanced cases of periodontal disease, more extensive work may be necessary before or after scaling and planning.
What Can I Do to Reverse Mild or Early Onset Gum Disease?
Brushing and flossing twice daily, using soft-bristled toothbrushes, and rinsing with antimicrobial mouthwash every morning and evening can help reverse gum disease in its early stages. Not smoking, drinking plenty of water, and scheduling dental check-ups and cleanings every six months are other tips for maintaining good oral health.Â
Learn More About Gum Disease Treatment in Century City, California
Getting professional treatment for gum disease as early as possible is vital to preventing tooth loss and periodontitis. Call the office of Meredith Levine, DDS, Inc. today at (424) 358-3811 to schedule an examination or find out how to reverse gum disease with dental cleanings and scaling and root planning procedures.