Why Early is Better Than Later with Gum Disease
On the surface all can appear normal. That’s when it’s vital to probe a bit further especially when you have concerns about periodontal (gum) disease.
What you’ve heard is true. Gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss.
Knowing that can save your oral health plus related time and costs. The key is an awareness of what to look for.
What’s worse?
Symptom awareness is good. Yet, not acting on what you see can cause your gum disease symptoms to worsen.
You’ll often notice the first signs when you’re brushing or flossing. Perhaps your gums feel or look irritated or you might notice an amount of bleeding around your teeth and gum tissue.
Some bleeding is normal. What’s not is bleeding that’s consistent or when it’s accompanied by swelled gum tissue.
The early signs of gum infection should not be ignored. Gum disease worsens the longer you delay a diagnosis and related treatment.
Where it starts:
Gum disease progresses in phases. It starts with dental plaque.
Plaque is the residue that forms on the surface of your teeth. It can also progress into the pockets beneath your gum tissue.
Bacteria thrive within the plaque on your teeth and beneath your gums. The more bacteria multiply without being removed the greater your risk of progressive infection that can lead to gum disease.
Pay attention to the spaces between your teeth and where your gum tissue contacts your tooth surface. Any signs of gum recession, loose teeth, swelling, redness, or bleeding indicate the need for an examination.
Deal with this first.
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. Without treatment, this infection can become worse and lead to periodontitis and then progress into full periodontal (gum) disease.
Gum disease eats away at your gum tissue. Weakened tissue is unable to support your teeth and tooth loss can result.
Your gum irritation can be severe enough that you will begin to avoid brushing and flossing. Neglecting daily oral hygiene is a clear indication that you should seek treatment.
Routine examinations and a professional teeth cleaning are a fundamental preventive treatment. Once gum disease symptoms are present you’ll require a deep cleaning.
Scaling and root planing is a procedure that removes the hardened tartar and plaque bacteria from beneath your gum line. The ultra-sonic technology will eliminate plaque and smooth your tooth surfaces to prevent further bacteria growth.
Contact your Rye, plaque Westchester dentist about about your gum disease symptoms. Call us at 914-921-5437 to schedule a free consultation.