Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can get worse over time, affecting the bone that supports your teeth. Oftentimes, gum disease is painless and can go undetected in those that don’t visit their Boise dentist regularly. It’s caused by the bacteria in plaque – the sticky film that covers your teeth. Without regular brushing and flossing, plaque can build up, and bacteria can infect your gums and teeth. Left untreated, gum disease can eventually cause your teeth to become loose and fall out.
That’s why your Boise dentist at Summit Dental Group would like to provide you with the following guide to understanding gum disease.
Gum Disease Stages
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease that’s caused by the buildup of plaque at the gumline. Without regular brushing and flossing, this plaque buildup produces toxins that irritate and inflame the gums, causing gingivitis. Symptoms include bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth. At this stage, gum disease can be treated and reversed since the bone, and connective tissues that surround your teeth are not yet affected.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is the second stage of gum disease where the supporting bone and fibers that hold teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. During this time, pockets can form below the gumline, trapping food and plaque. Visiting your Boise dentist regularly for treatment along with proper at-home care can prevent further damage from occurring.
Advanced Periodontitis
Advanced periodontitis is the third stage of gum disease where the fibers and bone that support your teeth are destroyed. This, in turn, can cause your teeth to shift, loosen, or fall out. Advanced periodontitis can affect your bite without aggressive treatment, and your teeth may need to be removed by a Boise dentist.
Symptoms Of Gum Disease
People can develop gum disease at any age. However, it’s most common among Treasure Valley adults. Detected early, however, gum disease can be successfully treated and improved. That’s why essential to visit your Boise dentist if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums.
- Bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth
- Receding gums and longer looking teeth
- Gums that have pulled away from teeth
- Teeth or gum infections
- Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
Gum Disease Treatment
Treatment for gum disease includes proper brushing and flossing to remove and prevent plaque buildup. Furthermore, regular cleanings by your Boise dentist or hygienist is the only way to remove plaque that has hardened into tartar. During this time, your teeth will be cleaned to remove tartar above and below your gum line. If your condition is more severe, surgical treatments might be necessary. These include:
- Flap surgery/pocket reduction surgery
- Bone grafts
- Soft tissue grafts
- Guided tissue regeneration
- Bone surgery
Summit Dental Group
With regular checkups and cleanings, gum disease can be treated early before it leads to a much more serious condition. By visiting your Boise dentist at Summit Dental Group regularly, you will ensure your mouth and smile is clean and healthy. Schedule an appointment today by filling out our online form or call us at [phone].
