Also known as periodontitis, gum disease is a serious oral health problem that almost everyone will develop at some point. This disease wreaks havoc on your teeth and gums, and it might end up doing permanent damage if you ignore it for too long. Luckily, most cases of periodontal disease can quickly be reversed with a handful of professional treatments at the office of Dr. Wendy Willoughby, DDS.
Developing Gum Disease
Gum Disease usually occurs when a patient doesn’t keep their teeth and gums as clean as possible. Your mouth is filled with millions of germs, and some of those germs are constantly attacking the soft tissue. The most effective way to remove the dangerous bacteria from your mouth is to brush, floss, and use mouthwash multiple times a day. When the germs aren’t removed, they may eventually infect your gums.
Signs and Symptoms
In its earliest stages, gum disease typically has very mild symptoms. You may begin to notice that your gums are slightly inflamed or sensitive to the touch. When you spit after brushing your teeth, there might even be some blood in your saliva. As the disease progresses, those side effects will become more pronounced. Your gums are constantly going to be swollen, discolored, and sensitive. If the disease isn’t treated, then permanent damage will most likely occur. Tooth loss, receding gums, and bone deterioration are all side effects of advanced periodontitis.
Treating Gingivitis
Mild to moderate gum disease is sometimes called gingivitis, and that condition is usually quite easy to treat. We generally suggest scaling and root planing to remove any lingering plaque and tartar that is in your mouth. Those two procedures only take around one hour to complete, and they will drastically reduce your risk of secondary health complications.
Treating Periodontal Disease
When gingivitis remains untreated, it usually evolves into periodontal disease. Our team may need to fill in cavities or carry out laser treatments on the gums to prevent them from receding. We might also suggest scheduling regular deep cleaning sessions until the disease is completely gone. As for your hygiene habits at home, you will need to use antibacterial toothpaste and mouthwash.
Treating periodontal disease is easier than ever as long as you catch this oral health condition in its earliest stages. Please reach out to Dr. Wendy Willoughby, DDS and her team if you or a loved one has recently noticed any unusual issues with your teeth or gums. Our office is located in Asheville, NC. Contact us today to book an appointment.
