Gum Disease

Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, results from bacterial growth in the mouth and may worsen when proper treatment is not sought out. 

Sometimes, it can also lead to tooth loss since gum disease destroys the soft tissue surrounding the teeth. If you are worried about the wellbeing of your gums and want to be assessed properly, you can always book an appointment with Star28 Dental Clinic. 

Causes of Gum Disease

Although the primary cause of gum disease is plaque, there are other additional factors which can contribute to periodontal disease. Many patients fail to realize during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause, hormonal changes can make gums more sensitive and lead to the development of gingivitis which is another cause of gum disease. 

HIV and cancer can affect the immune system of the body which puts patients at higher risk of developing gum disease. Medications can also impact oral health by interfering with the flow of saliva which protects gums and teeth. There are certain drugs which cause the abnormal growth of gum tissue and can lead to gum diseases.

Poor oral habits, like smoking or improper brushing, can harm gum tissue and prevent it from healing. A family history of gum diseases can also act as a major contributing factor for the development of periodontitis. 

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Even though gum diseases may progress without causing any discomfort or pain, there are still indicators which should be checked to verify the stage of progression of the disease. Bleeding from the gums during brushing, red and swollen gums, bad breath, poor taste, and deeper pocket formations – between gums and teeth – can be clear symptoms of gum disease. Although gum disease can progress through different areas of the mouth, only a periodontist can properly identify and treat it.

Diagnosis of Gum Disease

Periodontists evaluate the oral cavity before making a determination if the patient has gum disease. They look for swollen gums, pocket formation along the gumline, bleeding gums, teeth sensitivity and improper teeth alignment. Bone degradation is also checked along the mandible.

Treatment of Gum Disease

Although gum disease is incurable once it progresses beyond gingivitis, treatment can slow or even halt its progression. Treatment options largely depend on the stage of gum disease, how patients have responded to prior treatments, and their overall health. Treatment options can be both surgical and non-surgical in nature. They all strive to minimize pocket formations in the gums and to stop the infection from growing. While surgical options help restore supportive gum tissues, non-surgical treatments help prevent bacterial growth. LANAP Laser Therapy is a treatment option we’ll explore with you during your consultation.

Prevention of Gum Disease

By using plaque control treatments, gum diseases can be prevented from progressing to advanced stages. Professional dental cleanings, daily flossing, and brushing are basic prevention strategies. Brushing can help prevent the development of plaque on tooth surfaces, while flossing keeps food particles from between the teeth and under the gumline. 

Gum diseases are also linked with other serious health conditions like heart diseases and stroke affecting those patients with compromised immune systems. Call Star28 Dental Clinic at (714) 523-2828 for a professional cleaning and other dental treatments for the prevention of gum disease.