Got questions about recognizing gum disease and the periodontal care steps you can take to avoid gum disease? You’re in the right place. In this blog from Clear Smile Dental Studio, we’ll discuss the basics of gum disease and how to recognize it, and how you can avoid developing gum disease.
WHAT DOES GUM DISEASE LOOK LIKE? RECOGNIZING THE SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Broadly speaking, gum disease is broken up into three different stages of increasing severity. These are called “gingivitis,” “periodontitis,” and “advanced periodontitis.” Each one has different symptoms and indications, so let’s look at them now.
The first stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is completely reversible with proper periodontal care. Accordingly, it has relatively mild symptoms, usually including:
- Swollen and inflamed gums
- Dark red or purple gums
- Gums bleeding when brushing
- Halitosis (bad breath)
If left untreated, gingivitis will advance to periodontitis, a more advanced and irreversible stage of gum disease. You can still get periodontal care in Stamford to control the disease, but it’s not possible to completely eliminate gum disease after this stage. Its symptoms include:
- Gum recession that makes your teeth look longer
- Tender or painful gums
- Sensitive teeth
- Pain when chewing
Finally, advanced periodontitis occurs when gum disease has attacked and destroyed the gums and support structures of your teeth. It may be possible to save your teeth, but in many cases, they will need to be extracted and replaced. Signs of this condition include:
- Loose teeth
- Changes in your bite
- A foul taste in your mouth
- Pus forming between the teeth and gums
- Lots of pain and discomfort when chewing and eating
PERIODONTAL CARE FOR GUM DISEASE – STEPS TO RESTORE YOUR ORAL HEALTH
There are a few things you should do if you think you have gum disease. Taking action right away can help you eliminate or control the infection, and keep your mouth healthy, so don’t delay.
- See a dentist immediately – Your dentist in Stamford will usually recommend a “deep cleaning,” which is a periodontal treatment that eliminates bacteria from between your teeth and gums. Additional surgical treatments may be required if you need more periodontal care due to an advanced stage of gum disease.
- Brush and floss consistently – Proper brushing and flossing can help prevent gum disease entirely, and also helps keep it under control if you’ve already been diagnosed. Brush at least twice a day for two minutes, floss once per day, and follow any additional instructions your dentist gives you to improve your oral health.
- Change your lifestyle – Changing your diet, avoiding sugary drinks, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and other such changes can help with gum disease. We recommend asking your dentist for recommendations and following their instructions.
KNOW THE SIGNS OF GUM DISEASE AND GET TREATMENT RIGHT AWAY
The sooner you get help for gum disease in Stamford, the more likely it is that you can get your condition under control. Immediate treatment always results in a better outcome for your case. So don’t wait. If you suspect you have gum disease, contact Clear Smile Dental Studio today. Dr. Kwon and Dr. Park have years of experience in periodontal care, and can provide you with the guidance and treatment you need for healthy gums.
