5 Common Questions About Gum Disease
Are you suffering from gum disease and want to know more about it? If so, you likely have one of these common questions about gum disease.
Why Do Your Gums Bleed?
You may be wondering what is happening with your gums that is causing them to bleed. By having plaque underneath your gum line, it is introducing bacteria that is attacking all of your healthy gum tissue that it is exposed to. It may not even cause pain when you have the beginning stages of gum disease, but it is causing damage that can affect the health of your mouth.
Are Bleeding Gums The Only Signs Of Gum Disease?
Your teeth do not necessarily have to bleed to catch gum disease in its early stages. Some people have gums that are simply a bit puffy due to inflammation. The gums may also feel sore in general, especially when brushing or eating. Even the color of the gums can be more red than usual from irritation.
What Happens If You Ignore The Early Signs And Symptoms?
When you catch gum disease in an early state, it is something that can be treated and reversed with the help of your dentist. However, ignoring those warning signs will eventually lead to gum periodontitis. This is a more serious infection that is caused by gum disease, and can have some major consequences on your oral health.
How Can You Fight Gum Disease?
Your dentist may recommend a procedure called scaling and root planing as a way to treat your problem with gum disease There is essentially a sticky layer of bacteria on your teeth that goes deep into the gums, and that bacteria needs to be removed. If you leave it on your teeth, it is going to cause the tooth to deteriorate beneath your gums. The procedure does require anesthesia to prevent it from feeling painful, and can ever take multiple visits if you have extensive plaque that needs to be removed.
Can Gum Disease Lead To Other Health Risks?
Be aware that gum disease is known to be associated with other health conditions. If you are diabetic, it can make it difficult to control your blood sugar levels. If the bacteria gets into the bloodstream, it can lead to heart disease. If you are pregnant, gum disease can even lead to premature births due to the chemicals released from the inflammation.
Reach out to a periodontal dental practice if you have concerns about your ongoing issues with gum disease.
For more information, get in touch with a person like John S. Winford.