Knowing When You Need Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease is a serious infection of the gums and surrounding soft tissue that can cause irreversible damage to your oral health if it isn’t treated promptly. Knowing when you need gum disease treatment is key to preventing extensive dental damage and tooth loss. In this blog, we will explore the signs and symptoms of gum disease as well as ways to get treatment.

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums and surrounding soft tissue that can cause damage to your teeth and gums if it isn’t treated promptly. Gum diseases range in severity from mild cases of gingivitis to severe cases of periodontitis. Gum diseases can be caused by a variety of factors such as poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, stress, and nutritional deficiencies. Knowing when you need gum disease treatment is key to preventing extensive dental damage and tooth loss.

Signs & Symptoms of Gum Disease

The earliest stages of gum disease are relatively easy to treat and reverse. There are a few key signs and symptoms that you should look for to determine if you need gum disease treatment:

Red, Swollen Gums: Red, swollen gums are one of the first signs of gum disease. If your gums appear inflamed or irritated then it could be an indication that your gums are infected.

Bleeding Gums:

Gum disease can also cause your gums to bleed when you brush or floss. This is an indication that the infection has progressed and you should seek treatment immediately.

Receding Gums:

Gum disease can cause your gums to recede, exposing more of your teeth’s roots. This can cause sensitivity and increases the risk of tooth decay.

Bad Breath:

Gum disease can also cause bad breath due to bacteria buildup in your mouth. If you notice a persistent bad taste or odor, it’s time to see your dentist for treatment.

Treatment Options

Once you have determined that you are suffering from gum disease, it’s important to seek treatment immediately. Your dentist will be able to recommend the best course of action for your particular case. Gum disease treatments can range from simple brushing and flossing habits to more extensive surgical procedures depending on the severity of the infection.

Non-Surgical Treatment:

In mild cases, non-surgical treatments such as antibiotics and frequent dental cleanings may be enough to reverse the infection.

Surgical Treatment:

In more severe cases, your dentist may recommend surgical treatments such as gingivectomy or flap surgery in order to remove infected tissue and restore healthy gum tissue.

Conclusion

Gum disease is a serious condition that can cause irreversible damage if it isn’t treated promptly. Knowing the signs and symptoms of gum disease can help you make a timely decision to seek treatment. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, make an appointment with your dentist right away so that they can diagnose the condition and recommend the best course of treatment for you.