Gum disease is a serious threat to your oral and overall health. Unfortunately, its occurrence is also incredibly common — estimates say that more than half of adults over the age of 35 experience this chronic condition to some extent. Talking about gum disease is key to reducing its effects, so keep reading to learn more about gum disease in West Cobb, including why periodontal treatment is so important.
What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
Gum disease may be easy to miss in the very beginning stages. Right at first, the condition is classified as gingivitis and can still be reversed. This is why routine visits to the dentist are so important — by catching gum disease early, we can help you avoid its detrimental effects. Still, you should watch out for these warning signs of gum disease to ensure you get the treatment you need sooner rather than later.
Some of the most common symptoms of gum disease include:
- Red, bleeding, tender gums
- Chronic bad breath, even soon after brushing
- Persistent bad taste in the mouth
- Gum recession, where you can see the gum line starting to pull away from the tooth enamel
- Tooth sensitivity
- Shifting teeth
- Tooth loss in the latest stages
What If I Don’t Treat Gum Disease?
Gum disease requires prompt treatment. Minor infection can usually be reversed with improved oral hygiene practices and a few additional visits to the detnist’s office. As the disease progresses, it will eventually reach a point where “treatment” is no longer possible, and maintenance is the goal. The latest stage of gum disease results in tooth loss, which can have an effect on everything from the types of foods you can eat to how confident you feel in your everyday life. Furthermore, advanced gum disease has also been linked to heart problems, respiratory issues, memory loss, certain types of cancer, diabetes, and other serious health conditions.
What Are the Treatment Options for Gum Disease?
Scaling and root planing is the gold standard for moderate cases of gum disease. This is a procedure in which your dentist or trained hygienist removes bacteria living in the gums and smooths the root’s surface to prevent reinfection. When performed with a laser, this treatment offers reduced discomfort and prompt healing. Later stages of gum disease can also be treated surgically or with the laser, depending on your needs.
Whatever treatment is right for your smile, the important thing is seeking a solution for gum disease sooner rather than later. Don’t make yourself vulnerable to this chronic condition — visit your dentist ASAP!