Gum Disease Treatment at Avenue Dental Surgery, Torquay
If you’re experiencing bleeding, receding, or inflamed gums, you may very well have the early stages of gum disease. But what, exactly is it?
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is one of the most common dental issues affecting the population. It’s a term used to describe a category of diseases, most commonly gingivitis and early stage periodontitis. These diseases primarily affect the gums and the tissues and structures that support your teeth. If left unchecked, gum disease can lead to the gradual loss of bone and tooth attachment. In time, this may lead to tooth loss and other kinds of permanent damage.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is primarily caused by bacterial plaque. These plaque microbes produce a range of toxins, antigens, and acids that are introduced into the tissue, where the immune system is forced to deal with them. The mouth naturally relies on a balance of bacterial flora to keep it healthy, but without dental care, including brushing and flossing more thoroughly, the balance shifts. The immune system may no longer be able to cope with it as well as it can. This leads to gingivitis, which attacks the gums, or periodontitis, which attacks the deeper structures beneath them.
Risk factors and symptoms
There are lifestyle habits and health issues that can make certain people more susceptible to gum disease. These risk factors include:
- Smoking
- Stress
- Diabetes
- Poor nutrition
- Family history
These risk factors can get in the way of your immune response. This, in turn, leads to bacterial plaque causing infection in the oral tissue it’s in contact with. In time, this leads to gingivitis and periodontitis.
The earlier you catch gum disease, the better. Here are some of the symptoms you should be on the lookout for:
- Bleeding gums
- Persistent pain while chewing
- A persistent red colour to your gums
- Sore or swollen gums
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold
- Bad Breath
- Gradual mobility of teeth
- Gums receding around the teeth
If you notice any of these symptoms you should seek treatment as soon as possible.
The successful treatment of gum disease relies on the patient just as much as the dentist. You may be recommended certain changes to your dental hygiene routine, as well as advice on lifestyle and habits that could put you at a higher risk.
Whether you are seeing the early signs of gingivitis or you need help for more advanced cases periodontitis, Avenue Dental is here to help. Book a consultation to have one of our dentists take a closer look to highlight your treatment.
Contact our friendly reception team today to book a consultation
on 01803 21388 or you can email us- [email protected]