Gum Disease 

Plaque and bacteria build up around the teeth and give rise to gum disease, an all too familiar condition for many. Typically, it starts with gingivitis; the gums will be red and swollen, perhaps a bit tender or apt to bleed. With some diligence in oral hygiene and the aid of a professional, such cases can be put under control.

But left to its own devices, gingivitis may well become Fairfax periodontist, an advanced type of gum disease capable of harming the very bone and tissues holding the teeth in place. The trouble is that in its early phases gum disease is not always painful, so it is easy to miss the signs until they are harder to deal with.

If Gum Disease Is Overlooked

One should not expect an untreated condition to stay as it is. It has a way of insidiously affecting different aspects of oral health.

1. Inflammation that lingers

Bacteria will keep at the gums if plaque is left along the gumline. The telltale signs of gum disease are redness, swelling and tenderness; bleeding will be apparent in the course of brushing or flossing. Such persistent inflammation is an indication that the gums require more attention.

2. The formation of deep pockets

With the progression of the disease, the gums start to pull back from the teeth and what are called periodontal pockets can open up. Bacteria find refuge in these spaces and cleaning becomes a more arduous task.

3. Receding gums

In more advanced cases the tissue recedes and there is more tooth showing. Not only do the teeth look longer but sensitivity can set in, especially with anything hot, cold, sweet or acidic.

4. A loss of bone

Periodontitis can have serious repercussions in the form of bone loss where the teeth are supported. When those structures are compromised the teeth are not as steady. Down the line this can make replacing a tooth or other dental implants DC work more complicated.

5. Teeth going loose

Deterioration of the supporting bone and tissue can result in teeth shifting or becoming loose, which in turn can alter the bite and make the simple act of eating less of a pleasure.

6. Losing a tooth

There is the matter of persistent bad breath or a certain sensitivity that can be bothersome, for gum disease is not confined to what one can see in the mouth.

The Day-to-Day Impact

If left to its own devices, a serious case of gum disease has the potential to result in the loss of teeth once the underlying structures cease to offer a firm anchor. Chewing can be made difficult by advanced disease, particularly if a tooth is in pain or has become loose.

And there are further complications with missing teeth. Whether it is a matter of chewing, speech or even confidence, the loss of a tooth can be problematic depending on where and how many are involved. It can put a different kind of pressure on the rest of the teeth.

Do Not Dismiss These Warning Signs

It is best to be prompt in having a professional evaluation when symptoms present themselves. Put in for a dental appointment should you observe any of the following:

  • Gums that bleed when one is flossing or brushing
  • A persistent bad breath or taste in the mouth
  • Tenderness, swelling and redness
  • Gums that are pulling away
  • Sensitivity in the teeth
  • A feeling of looseness or a shift in position
  • Pus or discharge of some sort around the gums
  • A change in how the teeth come together on biting

None of this is to say you have advanced periodontal disease. A dentist in Washington DC will be able to assess the situation and advise on the way forward.

The Case for Early Treatment

Getting ahead of gum disease means the contributing factors can be dealt with in good time. After an examination a professional may put forward a plan of treatment be it a thorough cleaning, periodontal therapy or better home-care methods, contingent on severity.

Then there is the matter of regular check-ups. Since gum disease can advance without causing much discomfort, a professional is in a better position to spot changes that might elude you at home.

Some Daily Practices for the Health of Your Gums

Consistent habits are what make professional care effective. Among them:

  • Brush with a fluoride toothpaste on a twice daily basis.
  • Make use of floss or some other interdental cleaner to reach in between the teeth.
  • Put down tobacco products; they are not good for gum health.
  • When the bristles have seen their wear, put in a new toothbrush.
  • Do not neglect your dental appointments or any counsel you are offered.
  • Be mindful of any alterations in stability, swelling or bleeding.

They are no substitute for treatment of an existing problem but they will do much to support the health of your teeth and gums.

 

Put off no longer the protection of your smile

What may seem like a minor symptom can be the start of gum disease. If left alone the inflammation can end up damaging the bone and tissue of your teeth. It is preferable to have a professional evaluate recurring bad breath, bleeding, recession or sensitivity and put a stop to things before they get more involved.

In the end healthy gums are what a healthy smile is built on. A little regular attention will see to it that nothing gets in the way of your comfort or function over the years. With a combination of home care and a visit to the dentist, one can take the necessary steps to ensure the long-term health of one’s mouth.