What are the early warning signs of gum disease? What is the treatment?
Gum disease often begins quietly. In many cases, there is little or no pain at first. However, you may notice a problem when your gums look red, swollen, or feel sore. Also, bleeding during brushing is an early warning sign. Fortunately, with early care, it can often be controlled.
Understanding Periodontal Disease and Gum Tissue Disease
Periodontal disease affects the gum tissue around your teeth. It usually starts when bacteria build up along the gum line. As a result, the gums become inflamed.
A healthy smile starts with healthy gums. Therefore, the team at Preferred Dental Care in Davie focuses strongly on keeping gums healthy.
Early Warning Signs: What to Watch For
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. At this stage, gums may look red and feel tender. Over time, bleeding may occur during brushing and flossing. This is often a sign of early gum inflammation.
In addition, bad breath may last longer than usual. Also, gums may begin to pull away from the teeth. If left untreated, the infection can worsen and spread to gum tissue and even bone.
What is the cause?
Plaque forms daily as a sticky layer of bacteria on teeth. However, when brushing and flossing do not remove plaque, it hardens into tartar. At that point, only a dentist can remove it safely.
As tartar builds up, it irritates the gums. Because of this, infection and inflammation develop. Moreover, several risk factors can increase the chance of disease. These include poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, and genetics.
Treatment Options
In many cases, dentists can reverse early gum problems with professional cleanings and better daily care. As a result, swelling and bleeding often improve.
However, if the infection becomes more advanced, treatment may include scaling and root planing. This deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar below the gum line. Then, the tooth roots are smoothed so the gums can heal properly. In some cases, antibiotics are also used to control bacteria.
In severe cases, surgery may be needed. For example, pocket reduction or gum graft surgery can help repair and strengthen the gums. Ultimately, these treatments help prevent further damage.
Prevention and Supportive Care
Gum disease is preventable with daily oral care and regular dental visits. Therefore, brushing, flossing, and routine checkups are essential. At Preferred Dental Care, treatment plans are personalized to meet each patient’s needs.
If you notice bleeding gums or bad breath, schedule a dental visit as soon as possible. By acting early, you can prevent serious damage and protect your smile for the long term.
