Treat Gum Disease Early
December 29, 2017
Gum disease is known as a progressive disease, which means that it continues to progress and worsen until it is treated. Gum disease is preventable, and even reversible at early stages. If gum disease is allowed to progress without treatment, it can worsen into advanced stages which can endanger both your mouth and your overall health. Advanced gum disease can cause tooth loss and other severe effects in your mouth. Periodontal treatment can help to prevent gum disease from threatening your teeth and decrease your risk of developing health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even cancer.
Treating It Early
The earliest stage of gum disease is gingivitis. The word’s roots, gingi- refer to the gum tissue, and the -itis, refers to inflammation. Gingivitis is the inflammation of gum tissue. Signs of gingivitis usually include red, swollen gums that bleed when you brush or floss. It is often caused by poor oral hygiene that allows for bacteria, plaque, and tartar to build up along the gum line and underneath the gums. When you or your dentist see signs of gingivitis, it can allow for early treatment. A professional cleaning or even just a more vigilant oral hygiene routine at home may be enough to reverse gingitivis.
Scaling and Root Planing
Once gum disease has progressed past gingivitis into periodontitis or advanced periodontitis, it can no longer be reversed. However, it is important to manage the disease to keep it from wreaking havoc on your mouth. A deep cleaning, also known as a periodontal cleaning or root planing and scaling, may be needed to remove bacteria from beneath the gums. Advanced gum disease can cause the gums to recede, which can allow for the bacteria to get deeper and attack the roots and bones of the teeth. A root planing and scaling involves cleaning deep beneath the gums to remove bacteria that from the gums, roots, and bones. Regular treatments may be required to maintain the bacteria levels to keep the damage from progressing.
Early Treatment of Gum Disease Protects Your Health
Treating gum disease early is the most effective way to protect your smile. Schedule a consultation by calling Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.