A Qualified Periodontist In Jensen Beach, FL

What Is Gum Disease?

Do you have bad breath? Do your gums and teeth bleed when you brush? Are your gums swollen?

These are all signs of gum disease. It is a condition brought about by bacteria that has been left on your gums and teeth. This bacteria attack the gums that support the teeth and gums, which causes tissue loss, and in severe cases, bone loss. All these can ultimately cause tooth loss.

The bacteria forms and hardens on your teeth and becomes plaque. If not removed, plaque causes gum disease sooner or later. There are three stages of gum disease: gingivitis, chronic periodontitis, and aggressive periodontitis.

• Gingivitis – The earliest stage of gum disease. This is where the bone and tissue around the teeth have not yet been affected. Gingivitis can be reversed if diagnosed early. It is usually caused by inadequate brushing or flossing.
• Chronic Periodontitis – It is an aggressive type of gum disease where the bacteria have reached the roots of your teeth and the infection worsens. The gums may recede and cause sensitivity.
• Aggressive Periodontitis – It is when the gum supporting your teeth is affected by the bacteria and your teeth become loose; the onset of tooth loss.

Symptoms of Periodontitis

While asymptomatic in its early stages, it is possible to detect the symptoms of periodontitis at some point. These include:

• Swollen gums
• Bleeding when brushing
• Gum recession
• Visible plaque or tartar around the gum line
• Bad breath or a bad taste in mouth
• Gums that have separated from your teeth
• Changes in the way your teeth move when you bite
• Pus present between your teeth and gums

Causes of Periodontitis

Gum disease is usually caused by a buildup of plaque, which is an invisible gluey layer of germs that formed on your gums and teeth. It contains bacteria that emit toxins that damage and irritate your gums. Hundreds of types of bacteria live in your mouth, so keeping plaque away is a constant battle. However, the main cause of gum disease are:

• Genetics
• Lifestyle/Diet
• Smoking
• Certain medications such as steroids, contraceptive medicines, epilepsy medication, etc.
• Insufficient Brushing and Flossing

Preventing Gum Disease

It may be as simple as brushing and flossing every day. By devoting attention and care to your oral hygiene, you can dramatically lessen the chances of bacteria buildup. You can also prevent the disease by maintaining a healthy diet and not smoking. Reducing the amount of stress in your life is helpful too.

Treatment Of Gum Disease

You can develop the following habits in treating gum disease:

• Visiting your local dentist every 3-6 months
• Having a healthy diet
• Quit smoking
• Developing good brushing and flossing habits

Periodontal disease can affect one or several teeth. What do our Jensen Beach periodontists do with regards to periodontist procedures? For gum disease treatments, we usually administer care in stages. We evaluate the extent of the damage to your gums and begin educating our patients on correct brushing and flossing as well as plaque removal techniques.

In gum treatment procedures, here at Family Dentistry of Jensen Beach, we do a close inspection of the areas which have hidden plaque and brought on gum disease. The treatment usually reduces the size of the gum pockets depending on the extent of the damage, and your willingness to start proper dental hygiene.