If you experience tooth loss, bad breath, or bleeding gums, you may have gum disease. In Canada, gum disease is a common oral health problem that affects many people. It could lead to severe dental issues if ignored. Waterloo Dental Centre wants to give you the knowledge you need to understand gum disease, its causes, and effective prevention methods. In this blog post, we’ll go over everything there is to know about gum disease.

What Is Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an ailment that affects both the gums and the tissues supporting the teeth. Dental plaque, a bacterial film that develops on teeth and is home to germs that thrive there, is the cause. If plaque is not removed by brushing and flossing, which can only be done by a dental professional, it may harden into tartar.

The early stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, is marked by red, puffy, and bleeding gums. Gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a more dangerous form of gum disease that can lead to receding gums and loose teeth if it is not treated.

Why Does Gum Disease Occur?

The following factors, among others, can have an impact on the chance of developing gum disease:

  1. Poor Oral Hygiene: Gum disease might arise if you don’t regularly clean and floss your teeth.
  2. Usage of Tobacco: Smoking and other tobacco use raise the risk of gum disease.
  3. Genetics: A person’s background may make them more susceptible to developing gum disease.
  4. Diabetes: Those with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease.
  5. Drugs: Among other things, several antidepressants and antihypertensive drugs may increase the risk of gum disease.
  6. Hormone Changes: During adolescence, pregnancy, and menopause, hormonal changes can increase the risk of gum disease.

Symptoms And Symptoms Of Gum Disease

Gum disease may manifest some symptoms, depending on how severe the issue is. Following are some common indications of gum disease:

  • Poor breath
  • Receding gums
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Changes to the bite or how the teeth fit together
  • Pus between the teeth and gums
  • Red, swollen, or sore gums
  • Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
  • Gums that are red, swollen, or sore
  • Receding gums
  • Loose or moving teeth
  • If you have any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with your dentist to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment of Gum Disease

The severity of the condition affects the gum disease treatment plan. If you have minimal gum disease, your dentist may suggest non-surgical treatments like these:

  • Scaling and root planning: A comprehensive cleaning method that cleans the teeth’s roots of germs and tartar.
  • Antibiotics: Your dentist could suggest taking antibiotics to treat the infection and prevent it from spreading.

One of the following surgical procedures may be suggested by your dentist if the gum disease is more severe:

  • Flap surgery: This procedure shallows the pocket and elevates the gums to remove tartar buildup.
  • Bone grafts: In this procedure, periodontitis-related bone and tissue loss is replaced.
  • Directed tissue regeneration: This technique makes use of membranes to promote the growth of new bone and gum tissue.

Vaccines For Gum Disease

Adequate oral hygiene practices are the best method to prevent gum disease. To avoid gum disease, adhere to the following suggestions:

  • Use fluoride toothpaste and brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each.
  • Daily flossing: Use dental floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
  • Use mouthwash: By using an antiseptic mouthwash, you may freshen your breath and combat bacteria.
  • Have a balanced diet: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
  • Stop smoking and using other tobacco products. Putting an end to smoking and other tobacco use will lessen your risk of gum disease.
  • See your dentist regularly for cleanings and examinations to keep your teeth and gums in good condition and to catch any issues early on.

Following these recommendations can significantly reduce your chance of developing gum disease.

Contact Waterloo Dental Centre for All Your Dental Needs

At the Waterloo Dental Centre, we’re dedicated to helping patients achieve the best dental health possible. Our talented dental team offers various dental services, including preventative care, restorative dentistry, and aesthetic dentistry. If you notice any indications of gum disease or have any worries about your oral health, please contact us. We’ll develop a customized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and gives you a stunning, healthy smile.

 

 

DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.