Dr. Kush Patel and Dr. Krutav Patel emphasize the importance of maintaining healthy gums- they are not only the support structure for healthy teeth but serve as a barrier to harmful bacteria that can enter the bloodstream and affect overall physical health. This mouth-body connection continues to be carefully studied, producing growing scientific evidence that oral bacteria strains can cause inflammation in many body areas and are connected to various diseases.
Gum disease affects approximately 75% of adults and remains the leading cause of tooth loss today. Late-stage gum disease is preventable with routine dental care. Twice-yearly visits to Fullerton Craft Smiles allow our staff to identify and address early signs of gum disease before permanent damage is done.
The Stages of Gum Disease
The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease caused by plaque build-up on the teeth and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. It can harden into tartar if not removed through regular brushing and flossing. When plaque and tartar accumulate on the teeth, they irritate the gums and lead to inflammation and swelling.
Gingivitis symptoms include red, swollen, and tender gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing. Bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth are also common signs of gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to the next stage of gum disease, periodontitis.
Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease that occurs when the inflammation and infection in the gums spread to the surrounding tissues and bone that support the teeth. As the infection progresses, pockets can form between the gums and teeth, allowing bacteria to multiply and damage the underlying structures. The gums may start to recede, exposing the roots of the teeth and making them more susceptible to decay and infection.
In addition to the symptoms of gingivitis, periodontitis can cause loose or shifting teeth, changes in the bite pattern, and pus around the teeth and gums. The infection can also spread to other body parts, increasing the risk of systemic health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
Advanced periodontitis is the most severe stage of gum disease. It causes extensive damage to the gums, bones, and supporting structures of the teeth. In this stage, the teeth may become loose or fall out. Bone loss can lead to changes in facial appearance and function. The infection can also spread to other body parts through the bloodstream, causing serious health complications.
Treating Gum Disease
One of the most common treatments for gum disease is professional dental cleaning. This involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gums to prevent further infection and inflammation. During a dental cleaning, a dentist or dental hygienist will use special tools to scrape away plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gum line. This process helps to eliminate bacteria and reduce inflammation in the gums.
In addition to professional cleanings, dentists may also recommend more intensive cleaning procedures for patients with advanced gum disease. These may include scaling and root planing, which involves cleaning the roots of the teeth to remove plaque and tartar. We typically perform this procedure under local anesthesia to reduce discomfort and ensure thorough cleaning of the gums and teeth.
Surgical intervention may be necessary for patients with severe gum disease to properly treat the condition. Gum surgery can help remove infected tissue, reshape the gums, and repair damage. Several types of gum surgery are available, including flap surgery, gum grafts, and bone grafts. Each addresses specific issues related to gum disease.
In addition to professional treatments, patients with gum disease must practice good oral hygiene at home to help manage their condition. This includes brushing and flossing regularly to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums. An antiseptic mouthwash can also help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth.
In some cases, we may prescribe medications to help manage gum disease. We may prescribe antibiotics to help fight bacterial infections in the gums, while antimicrobial mouthwashes can help reduce plaque buildup and prevent further infection. Anti-inflammatory medications may also reduce swelling and discomfort associated with gum disease.
In recent years, laser therapy has emerged as a promising treatment option for gum disease. Laser therapy uses concentrated light energy to target and destroy bacteria in the gums, reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of healthy tissue. This minimally invasive treatment can be used with traditional cleaning methods to manage gum disease effectively.
In addition to professional treatments, lifestyle changes can help improve gum health and reduce the risk of gum disease. Quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and managing stress can help prevent gum disease and improve oral health. Regular dental check-ups are also important for monitoring gum health and catching potential issues early on.
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Don’t let bleeding gums be a serious problem for your oral health. Call us or schedule an appointment online.