Gum Disease Treatment & Prevention
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues surrounding your teeth. It is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and because it can be painless, many people do not realize they have it. During each regular checkup, Dr. Sun checks for signs of periodontal disease by measuring the space between your teeth and gums.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is usually caused by a buildup of plaque, a film that forms on the surface of the teeth. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, it can irritate the gums and create pockets between the gums and teeth. Gum disease has two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. The gums may become red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. With consistent daily cleaning and professional care, gingivitis can often be treated.
The second stage is periodontitis. If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress and damage the gums and bone that support the teeth, causing teeth to loosen or fall out.
Certain factors can increase a patient’s risk of developing periodontal disease, including:
Risk factors include smoking or using chewing tobacco, diabetes, steroid use, ill-fitting dentures or bridges, crooked teeth, older fillings, and hormonal changes during pregnancy.
Preventing and treating gum disease
Brush regularly, floss between your teeth, eat a healthy diet, and schedule regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations. Treatment may include scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning, periodontal surgery, or laser gum treatment.
