At CenterCare Dental Group, located in Phoenix, AZ, Dr. Gary Steen, Dr. Linda Beguin, and Dr. Whitney Sebree give their patients the necessary information to help them maintain a healthy oral regimen and prevent problems like gum disease, also known as periodontal disease.
What is gum (periodontal) disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is when a bacteria attack your gums and causes inflammation. It’s a painful ordeal, so maintaining good oral hygiene is vital. If you don’t, you may experience a variety of issues:
- Gum recession
- Bone loss around your teeth
- Tooth loss of teeth
- Gingivitis
- Periodontitis
Causes of Periodontal Disease
According to your Phoenix dentist, periodontal disease is related to poor oral hygiene. When a person neglects to take care of their teeth, the rest of their mouth suffers.
Here are a few things that may lead to gum disease:
- Not brushing your teeth twice a day
- Skipping bi-annual doctor’s appointments
- Not Flossing at least once before bed
- Skipping deep dental cleanings
- Choosing to eat unhealthy foods containing sugars that lead to plaque accumulation
- Chewing tobacco and smoking
What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?
You may not know you have gum disease at an early stage if you’re not visiting your dentist, here are a few symptoms:
- Receding gums
- Redness or swelling of the gums
- Periodontal abscess
- Bleeding gums
- Loose teeth
- Sensitivity
- Bad breath
What are some treatment options?
There are a few treatment options your doctor may provide you with, here are some:
- Applying antimicrobial products to assist in the healing process of periodontal disease.
- Periodontal surgery may be required depending on the severity of your gum disease
- Manually removing plaque by scaling or root planning
Your gums are just as important as any part of your dental/oral health. Improper care may lead to severe issues or diseases as mentioned above. If you have questions or concerns about gum disease or gum disease therapy, call your dentists, Dr. Gary Steen, Dr. Linda Beguin, and Dr. Whitney Sebree, at Phoenix, AZ.
