Periodontal Disease: Symptoms and Prevention
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection caused by bacteria in dental plaque that affects the gums, the periodontal ligament, and the alveolar bone. It causes a range of symptoms such as swollen gums, bleeding, and loose teeth. According to one study, half of the American adults have periodontal disease, but we hope that this blog will help to reduce that number.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
You should visit your dentist if you are experiencing any of the symptoms below:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Tooth sensitivity or discomfort while brushing
- Bad breath
- Loose or misaligned teeth
- Receding gums
- Formation of pus between teeth and gums
Keep in mind that periodontal disease often goes unnoticed, so you still need to take care of your oral health, get your teeth cleaned every six months, and see your dentist regularly even if you’re not experiencing these symptoms.
Periodontal Disease Prevention
While tooth loss may only occur in the advanced stage of periodontal disease, you can easily avoid this awful outcome by adopting a few preventive measures.
The American Dental Association recommends that you brush your teeth twice a day, in the morning and at night. However, brushing is not enough to get rid of the food stuck in your teeth, so you need to floss once a day too.
Don’t be surprised if your dentist asks you to change some habits. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, risk factors for periodontal disease include smoking, diabetes, and the regular use of certain over-the-counter medications.
Overall, as long as you maintain good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly, you likely won’t lose your teeth or have to go through a surgery to repair your gum tissue.
So, have you been taking care of your oral health? Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of periodontal disease or not, come see us at Scott E. Hayhurst Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. We’d love to improve your smile and make it brighter. Contact us through our website or by calling 208-376-7721 to book an appointment.