Aside from cavities, gum disease is one of the biggest threats to the health of the smile. Because the gums nourish the teeth and keep them viable, it stands to reason disease can have a big impact on their health. Unfortunately, some individuals end up neglecting the health of their gums simply because they do not practice good oral hygiene habits. It is imperative patients see the Dentist in Tacoma WA on a regular basis and understands the warning signs and implications of the disease so they can protect their oral health.
The signs of gum disease can range from mild to severe and include:
- Redness and irritation of the gums
- Painful gums
- Pus drainage around the base of the teeth
- Foul breath
- Tooth pain
- Receding gums
- Tooth loosening
- Tooth loss
- Fever
When gum disease first starts, it is a mild form of the disease and simply causes gum bleeding when brushing and create minor irritations. The signs of gingivitis are so innocuous many do not even know they have the condition until they visit a dentist. Thankfully, the earliest forms of gum disease are easily treated and can be reversed with good oral hygiene and a deep cleaning at the dentist.
As the disease progresses, it can cause extensive tooth loosening and eventual loss. As the gums recede, root exposure occurs and can cause tooth damage and pronounced decay. The Dentist in Tacoma WA can help stop the progression of the disease by using a technique called scaling and planning, which seeks to deeply clean the gums at the root level.
Treatment also involves the use of antibiotics and may require gum surgery to prevent ongoing damage and tooth loss. Most patients with progressive gum disease will need to be treated and monitored by their dentists for the rest of their lives to ensure the disease does not cause damage to their oral health.
If you have noticed any of these signs of gum disease, you are urged to seek your dentist right away. With treatment, the disease can be managed and you can protect your smile from tooth loss and damage. Call today for an appointment so the dentist can get to work on protecting your smile.
