Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease or periodontitis, is an infection that affects your oral tissue. This tissue helps keep our teeth in place and protects against harmful bacteria. When the health of your gums is compromised, it can cause several problems for your oral health. A good oral hygiene routine and a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the chances of an infection. If you have symptoms of periodontitis, the team at Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI, can help you manage these symptoms.
Stages Of Periodontitis
Periodontal disease is not something that occurs overnight. This infection occurs in stages, and it can be treated if caught in time. The first stage of this is gingivitis, which can include symptoms such as bleeding when you try to floss, swelling, or persistent bad breath. When detected in this early phase, there is a possibility to reverse the symptoms with deep cleanings and improved oral care. If it is not treated during this stage, it will progress to mild periodontitis. This phase can include the gingival tissue receding and forming pockets where more plaque can build up. It can progress further into moderate and then severe stages. At this point, the teeth may feel loose and there is a chance that you could lose them.
How Periodontal Care Helps
As mentioned earlier, gingivitis can be fully treated if caught in time. Later stages of gum disease can be managed with proper treatment as well. To do this, your dentist will recommend deep cleanings. These services are more thorough than the cleaning done during your checkup. Scaling and root planings may be done to remove plaque from below the gumline and help reattach the tissue to the root of your teeth. You may need to have several of these appointments to get your symptoms under control. If you have experienced tooth loss due to this infection, prosthetic options can be discussed once the disease is in a manageable state. It is important to replace missing teeth as soon as possible to avoid further bone loss or jaw weakening.
Preventing Gum Disease
Having a good oral hygiene routine and healthy lifestyle choices can help prevent the development of gum disease. At home, make sure that you are consistently taking care of your teeth by brushing and flossing. Do not forget to come in for a checkup twice a year, too. Your biannual dental appointment can help detect problems early. You may not show symptoms of the problem before it is too late. Your dentist can use visual examinations and X-rays to find these concerns early and treat them.
Our Team Offers Periodontal Care
To schedule a checkup or deep cleaning service, call Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI at (248) 852-1820.
